Sodium reacts with chlorine to form sodium chloride. Which statements describe what happens to the sodium atoms in this reaction? 1. Sodium atoms form positive ions. 2. Sodium atoms form negative ions. 3. Sodium atoms gain electrons. 4. Sodium atoms lose electrons a. 1 and 3 b. 1 and 4 c. 2 and 3 d. 2 and 4

The correct option is b) 1 and 4.

Explanation:

An ionic compound is formed when a complete transfer of electrons takes place from one element (usually metals) to another element (usually non-metals).

The element (metal) that loses electrons forms a positive ion which is known as cation while the element (non-metal) that gains electrons forms a negative ion which is known as an anion.

Sodium chloride is an ionic compound that is formed by the combination of sodium and chloride ions.

Sodium is the 11th element of periodic table having electronic configuration of

It will lose 1 electron to form a positive in having a chemical formula of

Therefore, the statements that say, sodium atoms form positive ions and sodium atoms will lose electrons are correct.

Thus, the correct option is b) 1 and 4.

yes it is balanced

it is the most commonly accepted one