natriumkloraatti

Natriumkloraatti (chemical formula NaCl) is the common inorganic compound known as sodium chloride. It appears as a colorless, crystalline solid at room temperature and has a characteristic salty taste. The substance consists of sodium cations (Na⁺) and chloride anions (Cl⁻) bonded via ionic forces, and forms a cubic lattice in its solid state with a melting point of 801 °C and a boiling point of 1413 °C. Water solubility is high, with 36 g dissolving in 100 mL of water at 20 °C, making it highly useful as a solvent for many industrial processes.

Commercial sodium chloride is produced primarily by two methods: mining of rock salt deposits and evaporation of seawater. In the mining process, brine extracted from underground salt mines is crystallized by evaporation, while in the seawater method, large evaporation ponds concentrate the brine until saturation and crystal formation occur. The resulting product varies in purity; refined salt for culinary use undergoes purification steps to remove impurities and may be iodized to prevent iodine deficiency.

Sodium chloride serves vast purposes across sectors. In food it acts as a preservative, flavor enhancer, and texture modifier. It is essential in the production of soap, textiles, paper, and plastics, as well as in water treatment and oil drilling fluids. Physiologically it maintains cellular osmotic balance, nerve function, and fluid distribution in organisms. However, excessive consumption is linked to hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and electrolyte imbalance. Public health initiatives in many countries recommend limiting daily intake to less than 5 g of added salt. The compound's ubiquity and versatility underline its importance in both daily life and industrial activity.