Question

Compare: 

Chlorine atom and chloride ion, with respect to

Atomic structure
Electrical state

Answer 1

In the chlorine atom, the number of protons (17) is equal to the number of electrons (17).

In chloride ion, there are 17 protons but 18 electrons.

Chlorine atom is electrically neutral. Chloride ion is negatively charged.

The chlorine atom is reactive. It reacts with sodium vigorously forming sodium chloride. Chloride ion is unreactive. It does not react with sodium.

Chlorine (Cl₂) is a poisonous, toxic, corrosive gas that is used in the manufacture of bleaching agents and disinfectants. It is non-toxic and readily absorbed by plants.