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This question is about sodium and chlorine - AQA - GCSE Chemistry Combined Science - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 2
This question is about sodium and chlorine. Figure 2 shows the positions of sodium and chlorine in the periodic table. State one difference and one similarity in t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:This question is about sodium and chlorine - AQA - GCSE Chemistry Combined Science - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Describe what happens when a sodium atom reacts with a chlorine atom.
Answer
When a sodium atom reacts with a chlorine atom, the sodium atom loses one electron from its outer shell. This electron is transferred to the chlorine atom, which then gains this electron. As a result, the sodium atom becomes a positively charged ion (Na⁺), and the chlorine atom becomes a negatively charged ion (Cl⁻). This transfer of electrons facilitates the formation of an ionic bond, resulting in the creation of sodium chloride (NaCl).
Step 3
Complete the reaction profile for the reaction between sodium and chlorine.
Answer
To complete the reaction profile:
- Label the line representing 'Reactants' at a higher point on the energy scale.
- The line should curve downwards to another point lower on the scale, labeled 'Products'.
- Indicate that this reaction releases energy, as it is exothermic. Connect the two points with a smooth curve representing the progress of the reaction.