1. Reaction with Oxygen:
* Sodium reacts rapidly with oxygen in the air to form sodium oxide (Na₂O). This reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.
* The surface of the sodium metal becomes dull and white due to the formation of a thin layer of sodium oxide.
2. Reaction with Water Vapor:
* Sodium also reacts with water vapor present in the air to form sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen gas (H₂).
* This reaction is also exothermic and can generate enough heat to ignite the hydrogen gas, causing a fire.
3. Reaction with Carbon Dioxide:
* Sodium reacts with carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the air to form sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃).
* This reaction is slower than the reactions with oxygen and water vapor.
Overall:
The combination of these reactions leads to the rapid corrosion of sodium metal in air. The formation of a protective oxide layer slows down the reaction process, but it is not enough to prevent the metal from reacting completely.
Safety Precautions:
* Sodium is a highly reactive metal and should be handled with extreme caution.
* It should be stored in a dry, inert atmosphere to prevent contact with air.
* Never expose sodium to water, as this can lead to a violent reaction.
In summary, when sodium reacts with air, it forms a dull white oxide layer, releases heat, and can potentially ignite hydrogen gas. This reaction is highly exothermic and requires careful handling to ensure safety.
