2 Na (s) + 2 H₂O (l) → 2 NaOH (aq) + H₂ (g)
Here's what each part represents:
* 2 Na (s): Two moles of solid sodium (Na)
* 2 H₂O (l): Two moles of liquid water (H₂O)
* 2 NaOH (aq): Two moles of aqueous sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
* H₂ (g): One mole of gaseous hydrogen (H₂)
Explanation:
* Reactants: Sodium (Na) is a highly reactive alkali metal. When it comes into contact with water (H₂O), a vigorous reaction occurs.
* Products: This reaction produces sodium hydroxide (NaOH), a strong base, and hydrogen gas (H₂).
* Balancing: The equation is balanced because the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side is equal to the number of atoms of that element on the product side.
Important Note: This reaction is highly exothermic, meaning it releases a significant amount of heat. The hydrogen gas produced is flammable, so it is essential to handle this reaction with extreme caution.
