Sodium chloride is a chemical compound commonly known as table salt. It is composed of two elements: sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl). Sodium chloride is an ionic compound, and it is formed by the transfer of electrons between sodium atoms and chlorine atoms.
Molar Mass of Sodium Chloride CalculatedÂ
The molar mass of sodium chloride (NaCl) is calculated by sum the atomic masses of its constituent elements. The atomic mass of sodium (Na) is 22.99 grams per mole, and the atomic mass of chlorine (Cl) is 35.45 grams per mole.
To calculate the molar mass of sodium chloride:
Molar mass of NaCl = (atomic mass of Na) + (atomic mass of Cl)
= 22.99 + 35.45Â
= 58.44 g/mol
The molar mass of sodium chloride is 58.44 grams per mole.
Sodium Chloride Uses
Sodium chloride, also known as table salt, has many uses in a variety of fields. Some of the common uses of sodium chloride are as follows:Â
- Sodium chloride is most commonly used as a seasoning and flavor enhancer in cooking and food preparation.
- It is used as a preservative in some foods to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.
- It is used in water treatment processes, such as desalination and softening of water, to remove impurities and make water safe for consumption or industrial use.
- It is used for intravenous fluids and hydration, saline solutions for electrolyte balance, and a vehicle for administering drugs.
- Sodium chloride is commonly used during the winter to melt snow and ice on roads and sidewalks.
- It is used in various industrial processes, such as manufacturing chemicals, detergents, soaps and textile dyeing etc.
- It is used in agricultural practices as animal feed, saline solution for irrigation and as a source of nutrients for plants.
- Sodium chloride is used as a raw material in the production of many chemicals including chlorine, caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) and sodium carbonate.
Sodium Chloride Side Effects
Sodium chloride is generally safe for most people when used in appropriate amounts, excessive intake or from certain medical conditions may cause side effects. Some of the possible side effects of sodium chloride are as follows:
1. High blood pressure
Consuming excessive amounts of sodium chloride can lead to high blood pressure, especially in individuals who are salt-sensitive or suffer from pre-existing high blood pressure.
2. Medication interactions
It may interact with certain medications, especially those that affect blood pressure or fluid balance. It is important to consult a health care professional if taking any such medications.
3. Electrolyte imbalance
It plays a role in maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. However, consuming too much or too little sodium chloride can upset the balance and result in electrolyte abnormalities.
4. Fluid retention
In some cases, excessive intake of it can cause fluid retention in the body, leading to edema (swelling) in some individuals.
5. Allergic reactions
Some individuals may be allergic to the use of sodium chloride and may experience allergic reactions like rash, itching or difficulty in breathing.
It is essential to follow recommended intake guidelines and consult a healthcare professional for specific advice based on individual health needs.
Sodium Chloride Inhalation Solution
Sodium chloride inhalation solution is a sterile solution containing sodium chloride (salt) that has been made for inhalation via nebulizer or other inhalation devices. It is used to help moisten and loosen mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough out and clearing the airways.
Some common uses of sodium chloride inhalation solution.
- Respiratory therapy
- Nebulizer medication delivery
- Airway clearance techniques
