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chloride

Definition

Chloride is an ion, which is a charged particle. It has a negative charge, and it is made up of one atom of chlorine. Chlorine is a gas, but when it is combined with another atom, it forms a chloride ion.

Chloride ions are found in many different substances, including salt, seawater, and table salt. They are also found in the human body, where they play an important role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure.

Chloride ions are important for many different processes in the body, including:

  • Digestion: Chloride ions help to break down food in the stomach.
  • Nervous system: Chloride ions help to transmit nerve signals.
  • Muscle contraction: Chloride ions help to contract muscles.
  • Fluid balance: Chloride ions help to maintain the balance of fluids in the body.
  • Blood pressure: Chloride ions help to regulate blood pressure.

Chloride ions are generally safe, but they can be harmful in high doses. Too much chloride can lead to dehydration and other health problems.

Imagine that you are a chef. You are cooking a meal, and you need to add salt. The salt is like chloride ions. It is a negatively charged particle that is found in many different substances. In the same way, chloride ions are found in many different substances. They are important for many different processes in the body, and they are generally safe in small doses.

How can the word be used?

Sodium chloride is a common salt.

chloride

Different forms of the word

Noun: chloride (plural: chlorides).

Adjective: chloridic.

Verb: to chloride.

Etymology

The word chloride comes from the Greek word chloros, which means green. The word chloride was first used in English in the 18th century to refer to a compound of chlorine and another element.

Question

Why is chloride important in the human body?