Cl- (chloride ions)

Chloride ions (Cl-) are negatively charged particles formed when chlorine combines with another element, such as sodium in table salt (NaCl). They play essential roles in various biological processes, including maintaining fluid balance in our bodies and transmitting nerve signals. Chloride is also important in industrial applications, such as water purification and food preservation. In nature, chloride is often found in seawater and contributes to the overall salinity of oceans. Understanding chloride ions is crucial for fields like chemistry, biology, and environmental science.