According to the provided information, sodium chloride solution reacts with water under specific conditions to produce sodium hydroxide and chlorine gas. This reaction is distinct from the simple dissolution of sodium chloride in water, where it dissociates into ions.
Understanding the Reaction
The reaction described involves sodium chloride present in an aqueous solution reacting with liquid water. This process, typically carried out through electrolysis, leads to the formation of new substances. The reference explicitly states:
"Sodium chloride solution and water react to produce sodium hydroxide and chlorine gas according to the following balanced equation: 2 N a C l ( a q ) + 2 H 2 O ( l ) → 2 N a O H ( a q ) + C l 2 ( g ) ."
This equation represents a chemical transformation where the original reactants (sodium chloride in water and water itself) are converted into different products.
The Balanced Chemical Equation
The specific reaction described is represented by the following balanced chemical equation:
$$
\text{2 NaCl (aq)} + \text{2 H}_2\text{O (l)} \rightarrow \text{2 NaOH (aq)} + \text{Cl}_2\text{ (g)}
$$
Let's break down the components:
- 2 NaCl (aq): Two moles of sodium chloride dissolved in water (aqueous solution).
- 2 H₂O (l): Two moles of liquid water.
- 2 NaOH (aq): Two moles of sodium hydroxide dissolved in water (aqueous solution).
- Cl₂ (g): One mole of chlorine gas.
This equation shows the stoichiometric relationship between the reactants and products.
Products of the Reaction
When sodium chloride solution reacts with water under these conditions, two primary products are formed:
- Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH): This is a strong base, remaining dissolved in the water solution. It is a crucial chemical used in various industrial processes.
- Chlorine Gas (Cl₂): This is a yellowish-green gas, known for its pungent odor and toxicity. It is widely used in water purification, disinfectants, and the production of plastics.
This specific reaction is a fundamental process in the chemical industry, vital for producing these valuable chemicals.
