Uniqueness of Sodium Chloride & H20

In summary, the conversation discusses the unique properties of sodium chloride dissolving in water. The participants wonder about the electronic, rotational, and vibrational degrees of freedom compared to other compounds dissolving in water and if there are any special characteristics in its wave function or other properties. The conversation also touches on the difference between covalent and ionic compounds and the conductive properties of salty water. However, it is suggested that the application of complex theories may not be necessary in understanding this simple process.
  • #1
rodsika
279
2
What's so unique about sodium chloride dissolving in H20? I mean, does the
electronic, rotational, and vibrational degree of freedom differ from other
compound dissolving in water? Any special characteristics in*its wave function
or other properties?
 
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  • #2
No idea what you are asking about, but I doubt there is anything special about NaCl. Plenty of other similar salts.
 
  • #3
Have you read Wikipedia on solubility?
 
  • #4
I mean. How does salt dissolving in water differ to other compounds like sugar
dissolving in water. Is there anything unique about how salt or sodium chloride
dissolve in water that is unlike other compounds dissolving in water?
 
  • #5
What is the most obvious difference between sugar and a salt?
 
  • #6
Borek said:
What is the most obvious difference between sugar and a salt?

Obvious difference? one is sweet while the other is salty.
Also I think salty water can conduct electricity while sweet water doesn't. I
wonder what atomic dynamics in the salt water is unique that is rarely found
anywhere else.

In solid state crystals, the electrons are smeared out, it belongs to the entire system
as energy bands. I wonder if the sodium chloride & h20 is related to this.

* * *
 
  • #7
You need to read up on the difference between covalent and ionic compounds.

All ionic compounds behave relatively similarly in water. (there are some that aren't as soluble, but that's why I said relatively)
 
  • #8
rodsika said:
Also I think salty water can conduct electricity while sweet water doesn't.

You are on the right track.

I wonder what atomic dynamics in the salt water is unique that is rarely found
anywhere else.

In solid state crystals, the electrons are smeared out, it belongs to the entire system
as energy bands. I wonder if the sodium chloride & h20 is related to this.

You are trying to apply oversophisticated theories to a simple problem. You need GenChem101, not quantum chemistry.
 

1. What makes sodium chloride unique?

Sodium chloride, also known as salt, is unique because it is a compound made up of two elements: sodium and chlorine. It has a distinctive crystalline structure and is essential for many biological processes in the human body.

2. How is sodium chloride different from other compounds?

Sodium chloride is different from other compounds because it has a high melting point, is water-soluble, and has a salty taste. It is also commonly used as a seasoning and preservative in food.

3. Why is sodium chloride important in our daily lives?

Sodium chloride is essential in our daily lives because it helps regulate the body's fluid balance, aids in nerve and muscle function, and is used in various industries such as food production, water treatment, and manufacturing.

4. What is the significance of the ratio of sodium to chloride in sodium chloride?

The ratio of sodium to chloride in sodium chloride is significant because it determines the compound's properties and behavior. For example, a 1:1 ratio in sodium chloride creates a neutral compound, while other ratios can result in acidic or basic compounds.

5. How does water interact with sodium chloride?

Water and sodium chloride interact through a process called dissolution, where the water molecules surround and separate the sodium and chloride ions. This process allows the salt to dissolve in water and creates a solution with a salty taste.

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