Na and Cl: Most Common Ions in Ocean Water

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SUMMARY

Sodium (Na) and Chloride (Cl) are the most common ions in ocean water due to their natural abundance and stability. Their prevalence is attributed to the processes of erosion, river discharge, and precipitation, which maintain a consistent salinity level in the ocean. These ions are stable and do not easily react with other elements, contributing to their dominance in seawater composition.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of ocean chemistry
  • Knowledge of ion stability and reactivity
  • Familiarity with the water cycle and its impact on salinity
  • Concept of mineral erosion and its effects on marine environments
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of river discharge in ocean salinity
  • Explore the chemical properties of stable ions in seawater
  • Study the impact of evaporation on oceanic ion concentrations
  • Investigate the processes of mineral erosion and its contribution to ocean chemistry
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Students studying marine biology, oceanographers, and environmental scientists interested in ocean chemistry and salinity dynamics.

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Homework Statement


Why are Na and Cl the two most common ions?

Why doesn't the ocean's salinity change

The Attempt at a Solution



I would guess that they're the most abundant ions simply because there occur more often in nature than the other elements in sea water.

As for the second part, I'd guess that rivers, precipitation along with evaporation, and minerals being eroded into the ocean tend to cancel one another out.
 
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Most likely because they are most stable ions. Not all ions are stable just because they have octet. Don't take my answer to seriously xD

2nd part: no idea
 

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