Table salt, scientifically known as sodium chloride (NaCl), is composed of two elements: sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl). Sodium is a soft, silvery-white metal belonging to the alkali metals group, while chlorine is a yellow-green gas at room temperature and is part of the halogens. When these two elements combine, they form crystalline sodium chloride, which is essential for human health and is commonly used as a seasoning and preservative in food. Salt plays a vital role in various biological processes, including fluid balance and nerve function.