Common salt formula.

## The reasoning Common salt is the everyday substance we sprinkle on our jollof rice and use to season our soup! Its chemical name is **sodium chloride**, and its formula is **NaCl** — one sodium atom (Na) bonded to one chlorine atom (Cl). This compound forms when sodium (a soft, reactive metal) transfers one electron to chlorine (a greenish gas that needs one electron). They create an **ionic bond**, producing the white crystals we know as table salt. ## Why the wrong options tempt you **KCl** (potassium chloride) — This looks similar because potassium is in the same group as sodium. It's actually used as a salt substitute, but it's not our everyday salt. **CaCl₂** (calcium chloride) — The "Cl" might confuse you, but calcium needs to bond with *two* chlorine atoms. This is used for drying things, not seasoning food. **MgCl₂** (magnesium chloride) — Another compound with chlorine, but magnesium also bonds with two chlorine atoms. Not table salt! ## Quick takeaway **Common salt = sodium chloride = NaCl** — remember "Na" for sodium (from its Latin name *Natrium*) plus one chlorine makes the salt on your table!