Salt

Salt is a mineral composed primarily of sodium chloride (NaCl), a chemical compound belonging to the larger class of salts; salt in its natural form as a crystalline mineral is known as rock salt or halite. Salt is present in vast quantities in seawater, where it is the main mineral constituent. The open ocean has about 35 grams (1.2 oz) of solids per liter of sea water, a salinity of 3.5%.
Salt is essential for life in general, and saltiness is one of the basic Human tastes. Salt is one of the oldest and most ubiquitous food seasonings, and salting is an important method of food preservation.
Some of the earliest evidence of salt processing dates to around 60 First Era, when people living in the area of present-day Angrath boiled spring water to extract salts; a salt-works in Darkshelf dates to approximately the same period. Salt was also prized by the ancient dwarves.
Salt became an important article of trade and was transported by boat across the Sea of Starlight, along specially built salt roads, and across the Tablelands on camel caravans. The scarcity and universal need for salt have led nations to go to war over it and use it to raise tax revenues. Salt is used in religious ceremonies and has other cultural and traditional significance.
Salt is processed from salt mines, and by the evaporation of seawater (sea salt) and mineral-rich spring water in shallow pools. Its major industrial products are caustic soda and chlorine; salt is used in many industrial processes including the manufacture of chloride, pulp and many other products.
Sodium is an essential nutrient for many species health via its role as an electrolyte and osmotic solute. Excessive salt consumption may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, in children and adults.

In Religion

Salt has long held an important place in religion and culture. Being commonly used in rituals, sacrifices, festivals, and thrown onto fire where it makes a crackling noise. The ancient empire of Khem, Darkshelf, Thurdarth, and the founding cults in Carcino, invoked their gods with offerings of salt. Salt is considered to be a very auspicious substance in Darkshelf and is used in particular religious ceremonies like house-warmings and weddings.
Salt is believed to ward off evil spirits in many traditions. The ancient Cult of Pelor, when returning home from a funeral, a pinch of salt is thrown over the left shoulder as this prevents evil spirits from entering the house.

NaCl

Type

Ore/Mineral

Odor

Sodium chloride has no odor, but there are odors called "salt-congruent odors" (fancy term for odors that are associated with salty foods).

Color

White, pink, green, yellow

Boiling / Condensation Point

2,669°F (1,465°C)

Melting / Freezing Point

1,474°F (801°C)

Density

2.17 grams per cubic centimetre