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How do valence electrons determine the reaction between sodium and chlorine?

A. Sodium atoms have 1 valence electron, and chlorine atoms have 7 valence electrons, so they form NaCl.
B. Sodium atoms have 7 valence electrons, and chlorine atoms have 1 valence electron, so they form NaCl.
C. Sodium atoms have 1 valence electron, and chlorine atoms have 6 valence electrons, so they form Na₂Cl.
D. Sodium atoms have 6 valence electrons, and chlorine atoms have 1 valence electron, so they form NaCl₂.

Answer :

Final answer:

The reaction between sodium and chlorine is determined by their valence electrons, resulting in the formation of NaCl.


Explanation:

The reaction between sodium and chlorine is determined by the valence electrons of the atoms involved. Sodium (Na) has 1 valence electron, while chlorine (Cl) has 7 valence electrons. To achieve a stable electron configuration, sodium donates its 1 valence electron to chlorine. This results in the formation of an ionic compound, sodium chloride (NaCl).


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