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Chemistry of Sodium Atomic Number and Symbol: The atomic number of sodium is eleven, and its symbol is Na. It is included in the periodic table’s alkali metal group.
Physical characteristics: Sodium is a soft, ductile, silvery-white metal that is very malleable. Its melting and boiling points are 97.79 °C and 883 °C, respectively, which are relatively low.
Reactivity: Sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas are produced when it reacts vigorously with water. This exothermic process has the potential to explode.
2Na + 2H 2 O →2NaOH + H 2
Because of its extreme reactivity, sodium has to be kept submerged in oil to avoid reacting with airborne moisture and oxygen.
Sodium produces a number of compounds, such as:
Sodium chloride, or NaCl, is a common table salt that is used extensively in food preservation and is necessary for human health.
Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), often referred to as baking soda, is a common ingredient in baked goods, an antacid, and a variety of cleaning products.
Na2SO4 (sodium sulphate): Used in the production of detergents and glass.
Biological Role: Sodium plays a key role in a number of biological processes, including the transmission of nerve impulses in living things and the maintenance of fluid equilibrium.
Fascinating Information
Discovery: Sir Humphry Davy used sodium hydroxide electrolysis to separate sodium for the first time…