* Sodium (Na) loses an electron: Sodium atoms have one electron in their outermost shell. They readily lose this electron to achieve a stable, full outer shell. This loss of an electron makes sodium a positively charged ion (Na+).
* Chlorine (Cl) gains an electron: Chlorine atoms have seven electrons in their outermost shell. They readily gain an electron to achieve a stable, full outer shell. This gain of an electron makes chlorine a negatively charged ion (Cl-).
Opposite charges attract: Now, you have a positively charged sodium ion (Na+) and a negatively charged chlorine ion (Cl-). Since opposite charges attract, these ions are drawn to each other.
Ionic bond: This strong electrostatic attraction between the oppositely charged ions is called an ionic bond. It forms the basis of the compound sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt.
Key points to remember:
* Electrostatic forces: The attraction between sodium and chlorine ions is based on the fundamental principle of electrostatic forces, where opposite charges attract.
* Stable configuration: The loss and gain of electrons allow both sodium and chlorine to achieve a stable, full outer shell, which is a key factor in chemical bonding.
* Ionic compound formation: The strong attraction between the ions results in the formation of a stable ionic compound, sodium chloride.
