When NaCl(s) is placed in water, the polar water molecules surround each Na+ cation and Cl- anion, causing the ions to become solvated. This disrupts the ionic bonds holding the NaCl(s) together, leading to the dissociation of the compound into its constituent ions, Na+ and Cl-.
Here is a simple diagram illustrating the dissociation of NaCl(s) in water:
NaCl(s) --> Na⁺(aq) + Cl⁻(aq)
In this diagram, the NaCl(s) on the left-hand side dissociates into Na⁺ ions and Cl⁻ ions in aqueous solution on the right-hand side. Thus, the dissociation of NaCl(s) in water is depicted in the diagram.
Use a diagram to explain why NaCI(s) will dissociate when placed in water
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