QuestionMay 19, 2026

12. How does the concept of electron transfer explain why sodium and chlorine react to produce sodium chloride?(Hint: Think about the movement of electrons between sodium and chlorine atoms during the reaction.)

12. How does the concept of electron transfer explain why sodium and chlorine react to produce sodium chloride?(Hint: Think about the movement of electrons between sodium and chlorine atoms during the reaction.)
12. How does the concept of electron transfer explain why sodium and chlorine react to
produce sodium chloride?(Hint: Think about the movement of electrons between sodium
and chlorine atoms during the reaction.)

Solution
4.1(304 votes)

Answer

Sodium transfers its one outer electron to chlorine, creating Na^+ and Cl^- ions that bond through electrostatic attraction, producing sodium chloride. Explanation 1. Identify electron configuration of sodium and chlorine Sodium (Na) has 1 valence electron in the outer shell; chlorine (Cl) has 7 valence electrons. 2. Electron transfer process Sodium loses its 1 valence electron forming Na^+; chlorine gains that electron forming Cl^-. 3. Formation of ionic bond The oppositely charged Na^+ and Cl^- attract via strong electrostatic forces, forming sodium chloride.

Explanation

1. Identify electron configuration of sodium and chlorine <br /> Sodium ($Na$) has 1 valence electron in the outer shell; chlorine ($Cl$) has 7 valence electrons. <br />2. Electron transfer process <br /> Sodium loses its 1 valence electron forming $Na^+$; chlorine gains that electron forming $Cl^-$. <br />3. Formation of ionic bond <br /> The oppositely charged $Na^+$ and $Cl^-$ attract via strong electrostatic forces, forming sodium chloride.
Click to rate:

Similar Questions