* Sodium atom: When a sodium atom loses its outermost valence electron, it becomes a positively charged ion known as a sodium ion (Na+). The loss of an electron leaves the sodium atom with an excess of protons in the nucleus compared to electrons, resulting in a net positive charge.
* Chlorine atom: When a chlorine atom gains an electron, it becomes a negatively charged ion known as a chloride ion (Cl-). The addition of an electron to the chlorine atom gives it an excess of electrons compared to protons, resulting in a net negative charge.
In summary, when a valence electron is transferred from a sodium atom to a chlorine atom, the sodium atom becomes a positively charged sodium ion (Na+), and the chlorine atom becomes a negatively charged chloride ion (Cl-).