Which group of minerals includes sodium and chloride?

The correct choice identifies sodium and chloride as part of the major minerals group. Major minerals, also known as macrominerals, are minerals that the body requires in relatively large amounts. Sodium and chloride, both of which play crucial roles in fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function, fall into this category.

Sodium is vital for maintaining blood pressure and fluid balance in the body, while chloride, which often pairs with sodium, helps form hydrochloric acid in the stomach and assists with digestion. Their classification as major minerals is based on the body's need for larger quantities of these nutrients compared to trace minerals, which are required in much smaller amounts.

The other options do not accurately categorize sodium and chloride. Trace minerals refer to elements like iron and zinc, which are important but needed in minute quantities. Water-soluble minerals is not a standard classification for minerals—while certain minerals can be found in conjunction with water-soluble vitamins, they are not characterized in this way. Electrolytes is a term that can encompass minerals like sodium, potassium, and chloride, referring specifically to their ability to conduct electricity and function in nerve and muscle activity. However, it does not directly correspond to the major minerals classification, which is why identifying sodium and chloride specifically