Controlled dissolution of a single ion from a salt interface

Interactions between monatomic ions and water molecules are fundamental to understanding the hydration of complex polyatomic ions and ionic process. Among the simplest and well-established ion-related reactions is dissolution of salt in water, which is an endothermic process requiring an increase in entropy. Extensive efforts have been made to date; however, most studies at single-ion level have been limited to theoretical approaches. Here, we demonstrate the salt dissolution process by manipulating a single water molecule at an under-coordinated site of a sodium chloride film. Manipulation of molecule in a controlled manner enables us to understand ion–water interaction as well as dynamics of water molecules at NaCl interfaces, which are responsible for the selective dissolution of anions. The water dipole polarizes the anion in the NaCl ionic crystal, resulting in strong anion–water interaction and weakening of the ionic bonds. Our results provide insights into a simple but important elementary step of the single-ion chemistry, which may be useful in ion-related sciences and technologies.