Answer
When we say "molecules," we are talking about the smallest units in compounds formed by the sharing of electrons in covalent bonds. Because NaCl (or table salt) is formed from sodium ions and chlorine ions bonded together, this compound is composed of ionic bonds and not covalent bonds. The smallest unit of an ionic compound is actually called a formula unit.
Work Step by Step
When we say "molecules," we are talking about the smallest units in compounds formed by the sharing of electrons in covalent bonds. Because NaCl (or table salt) is formed from sodium ions and chlorine ions bonded together, this compound is composed of ionic bonds and not covalent bonds. The smallest unit of an ionic compound is actually called a formula unit.
