1. Chlorine's Atomic Structure:
* Chlorine (Cl) has an atomic number of 17, meaning it has 17 protons and 17 electrons in its neutral state.
* Its electron configuration is 2-8-7, with 7 electrons in its outermost shell (the 3rd energy level).
2. Formation of Chloride Ion:
* Chlorine readily gains one electron to achieve a stable octet (8 electrons) in its outermost shell.
* This process forms a chloride ion (Cl-), with a negative charge due to the extra electron.
3. Outermost Shell of Chloride Ion:
* The chloride ion now has 8 electrons in its outermost shell (the 3rd energy level).
Therefore, a chlorine ion in table salt has 8 electrons in its outermost energy level.
