Can a compound have multiple structures?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the question of whether a compound can have multiple structures, specifically focusing on Sodium dichloride (Cl2Na-). Participants explore the nature of this compound and its structural variations, as well as the implications of these variations on chemical behavior and reactions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the validity of sodium dichloride as a real compound, suggesting it may be a hypothetical triple ion with properties estimated by computational methods.
  • Another participant raises a question about the reaction of Na- with Cl2, proposing that it might create NaCl and a separate unbonded Cl- ion, indicating a consideration of electron configuration.
  • A different participant asserts that Na- does not exist as a separate entity and is only found in exotic compounds, implying limitations on its reactivity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the existence and nature of sodium dichloride, with no consensus reached regarding its status as a real compound or the implications of its structural variations.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the definitions of the compounds discussed, the assumptions about their existence, and the conditions under which they might react.

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Please read about isomers.

I am not convinced sodium dichloride is a real compound, looks more like a hypothetical triple ion with its properties estimated by computational methods.
 
Borek said:
Please read about isomers.

I am not convinced sodium dichloride is a real compound, looks more like a hypothetical triple ion with its properties estimated by computational methods.
Then how does Na- react with Cl2? Does it create NaCl plus a separate unbonded Cl- ion? At least in terms of electron configuration it seems more balanced, right?o_O
 
No idea if it is even possible to make them react directly, Na- doesn't exist as a separate entity, only in exotic compounds.
 
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