Na and Cl: Most Common Ions in Ocean Water

In summary, Na and Cl are the most common ions in sea water because they occur more frequently in nature than other elements. The ocean's salinity remains relatively constant due to the processes of rivers, precipitation, evaporation, and mineral erosion balancing each other out. Stability may also play a role in the prevalence of Na and Cl ions.
  • #1
ƒ(x)
328
0

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.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
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
 

1. What are Na and Cl?

Na and Cl are chemical elements, also known as sodium and chlorine, respectively. They are the two most common ions found in ocean water, making up about 85% of the total ions present.

2. How do Na and Cl ions enter ocean water?

Na and Cl ions enter ocean water through a process called weathering, which involves the breakdown of rocks and minerals on land. These ions are carried by rivers and streams into the ocean, where they accumulate over time.

3. Why are Na and Cl ions important in ocean water?

Na and Cl ions play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of salinity and pH in ocean water. They also contribute to the formation of marine life and the overall health of ocean ecosystems.

4. Can Na and Cl ions be removed from ocean water?

Yes, Na and Cl ions can be removed from ocean water through processes such as desalination, which involves removing the salt from seawater to make it drinkable. However, this process is costly and not widely available.

5. Do Na and Cl ions have any other uses besides being present in ocean water?

Yes, Na and Cl ions have various industrial and domestic uses, such as in the production of table salt, cleaning products, and in the manufacturing of paper and textiles. They are also important in many biological processes in the human body.

Similar threads

  • Chemistry
Replies
4
Views
796
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
931
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
21
Views
991
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
14K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
23
Views
3K
  • Earth Sciences
Replies
3
Views
4K
Back
Top