2 Na + Br₂ → 2 NaBr
Here's how it works:
* Reactants:
* Na (sodium) is a highly reactive alkali metal.
* Br₂ (bromine) is a diatomic halogen molecule.
* Product:
* NaBr (sodium bromide) is an ionic compound formed by the transfer of electrons from sodium to bromine.
Explanation:
* Balancing the Equation: We need two sodium atoms (Na) on the product side to balance the two sodium atoms on the reactant side. The bromine atoms are already balanced.
* Reaction Type: This is a synthesis reaction, where two or more reactants combine to form a single product.
Note: This reaction is highly exothermic, meaning it releases a lot of heat and light. It is best performed in a controlled environment by a trained chemist.