When salt and water are mixed, the salt dissolves, creating a salt solution. The water molecules surround the individual sodium and chloride ions, effectively breaking the bonds that held the salt together. This results in a homogeneous mixture where the salt is no longer visible as a solid. Here's a more detailed explanation:Dissolving:Salt (sodium chloride, NaCl) is a crystalline solid made up of sodium and chloride ions held together by their attraction to each other. When salt is added to water, the water molecules, which are polar (having a slightly positive and a slightly negative end), surround the salt ions. Ion Separation:The positive end of the water molecule (hydrogen) is attracted to the negative chloride ion, and the negative end of the water molecule (oxygen) is attracted to the positive sodium ion. This attraction overcomes the force holding the sodium and chloride ions together in the salt crystal. Homogeneous Mixture:The separated ions are now surrounded by water molecules, and they disperse evenly throughout the water, forming a homogeneous mixture or solution. The salt is no longer visible as a solid, and the solution tastes salty.