What is the Difference Between Carbon Tetrachloride and Sodium Chloride?

Carbon tetrachloride and sodium chloride are both chlorine-containing chemical compounds, but they have distinct differences in their chemical structure, properties, and applications. Here are the main differences between the two:

1. Chemical Structure: Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a nonpolar covalent molecule, while sodium chloride (NaCl) is an ionic compound.
2. Solubility: Carbon tetrachloride is insoluble in water due to its nonpolar nature, while sodium chloride is highly soluble in water because of its ionic character and polar nature.
3. Electrical Conductivity: Carbon tetrachloride is a poor conductor of electricity, while sodium chloride, when dissolved in water or melted, conducts electricity well due to the presence of free ions.
4. Toxicity: Carbon tetrachloride is toxic and has been linked to health issues, whereas sodium chloride is an essential component for human health and is widely used in various applications, including food processing and road de-icing.

In summary, carbon tetrachloride is a nonpolar covalent molecule with toxic properties, while sodium chloride is an ionic compound essential for human health and widely used in various applications.

Comparative Table: Carbon Tetrachloride vs Sodium Chloride

Here is a table comparing the differences between carbon tetrachloride and sodium chloride:

The key difference between carbon tetrachloride and sodium chloride is their chemical structure. Carbon tetrachloride is a nonpolar covalent molecule, consisting of one carbon atom bonded to four chlorine atoms, while sodium chloride is an ionic compound, consisting of one sodium atom bonded to one chlorine atom. Additionally, carbon tetrachloride dissolves in nonpolar solvents, whereas sodium chloride dissolves in water and is insoluble in organic solvents.