* Electron Configuration: Sodium has one valence electron in its outermost shell.

* Stability: Atoms strive for a stable electron configuration, which is typically achieved by having a full outer shell.

* Octet Rule: Sodium can achieve a full outer shell by losing its single valence electron, making it isoelectronic (having the same electron configuration) with the noble gas neon (Ne).

* Ion Formation: Losing an electron results in a net positive charge, forming the sodium cation (Na+).