Let's Explore the World of Compounds!

Which of the following is a compound?

Aluminum (Al) in a can

Mercury (Hg) in a gauge

Titanium (Ti) in a golf club

Salt (NaCl) in a shaker

Gold (Au) in a ring

Answer:

The compound among the options provided is:

Salt (NaCl) in a shaker

Oh wow! Did you know that salt, also known as sodium chloride (NaCl), is actually a compound? Sodium chloride is a commonly used substance that plays various roles in our daily lives.

Sodium chloride, with a chemical formula NaCl, is an ionic compound consisting of sodium and chloride ions in a 1:1 ratio. This compound is responsible for the salinity of seawater and is found in the extracellular fluid of many living organisms.

In its edible or table salt form, sodium chloride is used as a condiment and food preservative. It is also widely used in various industrial processes and serves as a vital source of sodium and chlorine compounds for chemical syntheses.

Another common use of sodium chloride is for de-icing roadways during sub-freezing weather conditions.

So, the next time you see salt in a shaker, remember that you are looking at a compound that has significant importance in different aspects of our lives!