CI Mineral Abbreviation

Chloride

Chloride, a mineral categorized under the halide group, plays a pivotal role in various biological processes, including maintaining the balance of body fluids and transmitting nerve impulses. It is commonly found in table salt (sodium chloride) and is essential for the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which aids in digestion.

In the industrial sector, chloride is utilized in water treatment processes and the manufacturing of plastics and other chemicals. Its presence in the environment, however, must be carefully monitored, as excessive amounts can lead to corrosion and harm aquatic life. The balance of chloride in the body and the environment underscores its dual nature as both a necessity and a potential hazard.