Here's how to break down the reaction and understand the litmus test result:

The Reaction

Sodium (Na) reacts vigorously with oxygen (O₂) to form sodium oxide (Na₂O):

4 Na + O₂ → 2 Na₂O

Sodium Oxide in Water

When sodium oxide is dissolved in water, it reacts to form sodium hydroxide (NaOH), a strong base:

Na₂O + H₂O → 2 NaOH

Litmus Test

* Litmus paper is a pH indicator.

* Red litmus paper turns blue in the presence of a base.

* Blue litmus paper remains blue in a base.

Conclusion

Since sodium hydroxide is a strong base, the solution would turn red litmus paper blue.