* Sodium is more reactive than iron. Sodium has a higher tendency to lose electrons and form positive ions. This means it will readily displace iron from its compounds.
The actual reaction:
Sodium reacts with iron(II) oxide (FeO) to produce sodium oxide (Na₂O) and iron.
Here's the balanced chemical equation:
2 Na + FeO → Na₂O + Fe
Explanation:
* 2 Na: Two sodium atoms are needed to balance the charge of the oxide ion (O²⁻) in sodium oxide.
* FeO: One molecule of iron(II) oxide.
* Na₂O: One molecule of sodium oxide.
* Fe: One atom of iron.