What compound is formed by the ionic bonding of sodium and chlorine?

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The compound formed by ionic bonding between sodium and chlorine is sodium chloride.

Sodium chloride has the formula NaCl. Sodium atoms lose one electron to become positively charged sodium ions, while chlorine atoms gain that electron to become negatively charged chloride ions. The opposite charges hold the ions in a repeating crystal lattice.

Purified sodium chloride is commonly called table salt, although commercial table salt can also contain small amounts of iodine compounds and anti-caking agents. Naturally occurring sodium chloride is the mineral halite and is widely obtained from seawater or underground deposits.

Sodium chloride should not be confused with potassium chloride, another white ionic salt sometimes used in low-sodium food products. Sodium chloride is essential in small amounts for nerve signaling and fluid balance, but excessive dietary intake can be harmful.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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