Sodium chloride (NaCl), common table salt, is prepared from a neutralization reaction by reacting hydrochloric acid (HCl) with sodium hydroxide (NaOH). This reaction produces sodium chloride and water.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Reactants: The reaction involves an acid (hydrochloric acid, HCl) and a base (sodium hydroxide, NaOH).
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Neutralization: The hydrogen ions (H+) from the hydrochloric acid react with the hydroxide ions (OH-) from the sodium hydroxide to form water (H2O).
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Salt Formation: Simultaneously, the sodium ions (Na+) from the sodium hydroxide combine with the chloride ions (Cl-) from the hydrochloric acid to form sodium chloride (NaCl), a salt.
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The Chemical Equation: The overall balanced chemical equation for the reaction is:
HCl (aq) + NaOH (aq) → NaCl (aq) + H2O (l)
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Process: In a laboratory setting, an aqueous solution of hydrochloric acid is carefully titrated with an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide. An indicator, such as phenolphthalein, is used to determine the endpoint of the reaction, which is when the solution is neutralized (pH ≈ 7).
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Isolation of Sodium Chloride: After the neutralization reaction is complete, the water is evaporated, leaving behind solid sodium chloride crystals. These crystals can then be further purified if necessary.
Here's a table summarizing the reaction:
| Reactant | Chemical Formula | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrochloric Acid | HCl | Acid |
| Sodium Hydroxide | NaOH | Base |
| Sodium Chloride | NaCl | Salt (Product) |
| Water | H2O | Byproduct |
In summary, sodium chloride is created from a neutralization reaction where hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide react to form sodium chloride and water. Evaporation of the water leaves behind pure sodium chloride.
