The chemical symbol for table salt is NaCl. This compound consists of sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl) ions. Sodium is a metal that reacts with water and is highly reactive, while chlorine is a toxic gas at room temperature. When combined to form NaCl, they create a stable ionic compound that is essential for many biological processes, including regulating fluid balance and nerve transmission in living organisms. Table salt is widely used in cooking and food preservation, making it a common household staple across cultures.