Question

Why can't we add a single chlorine atom?


Chlorine doesn't exist in nature.


Sodium only occurs in bonded pairs.


Chlorine naturally occurs in bonded pairs.

Answer 1

The statement that "chlorine doesn't exist in nature" is not accurate. Chlorine is an element that does exist naturally in the form of chloride ions (Cl-) or as a diatomic molecule (Cl2). However, it is not commonly found as a single chlorine atom because chlorine is highly reactive and tends to form bonds with other elements to achieve a stable electron configuration. In its natural state, chlorine is often found as a chloride ion in compounds like table salt (NaCl). Additionally, chlorine gas (Cl2) is commonly used in various industrial applications.