* Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) formation: Sodium hydroxide is a strong base, and its formation typically involves the reaction of sodium (Na) with water (H₂O).

* Hydrogen gas (H₂) formation: Hydrogen gas is produced as a byproduct when sodium reacts with water.

The correct reaction:

The reaction you're describing is actually the reaction of sodium (Na) with water (H₂O):

2 Na(s) + 2 H₂O(l) → 2 NaOH(aq) + H₂(g)

Explanation:

* Sodium (Na) reacts with water (H₂O) to produce sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen gas (H₂).

* The balanced equation shows that 2 moles of sodium react with 2 moles of water to produce 2 moles of sodium hydroxide and 1 mole of hydrogen gas.

Calculating moles of NaOH:

Based on the balanced equation, if 2 moles of water react, you would produce 2 moles of sodium hydroxide.

Let me know if you have any other chemistry questions!