Calculate the molecular mass of NaCl.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking to calculate the molecular mass of sodium chloride (NaCl). To solve this, we will need to look up the atomic masses of sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl) and then add them together to find the molecular mass.
Answer
The molecular mass of sodium chloride (NaCl) is $58.44 \, \text{g/mol}$.
Answer for screen readers
The molecular mass of sodium chloride (NaCl) is $58.44 , \text{g/mol}$.
Steps to Solve
- Look up the atomic mass of sodium (Na)
The atomic mass of sodium (Na) is approximately 22.99 grams per mole.
- Look up the atomic mass of chlorine (Cl)
The atomic mass of chlorine (Cl) is approximately 35.45 grams per mole.
- Add the atomic masses together
To find the molecular mass of sodium chloride (NaCl), add the atomic masses of sodium and chlorine:
$$ \text{Molecular mass of NaCl} = \text{atomic mass of Na} + \text{atomic mass of Cl} $$
Substituting the values:
$$ \text{Molecular mass of NaCl} = 22.99 , \text{g/mol} + 35.45 , \text{g/mol} $$
- Calculate the total
Now, perform the addition:
$$ \text{Molecular mass of NaCl} = 58.44 , \text{g/mol} $$
The molecular mass of sodium chloride (NaCl) is $58.44 , \text{g/mol}$.
More Information
The molecular mass of sodium chloride is important in various chemical calculations, including stoichiometry in chemical reactions. NaCl is a common compound found in table salt and plays a vital role in biological systems.
Tips
- Confusing atomic mass with molecular mass: Remember that atomic mass refers to single elements, while molecular mass is the sum of the respective atomic masses in a compound.
- Forgetting to include units: Always express molecular mass in grams per mole (g/mol).
