Reaction:
2 C4H9OH + 2 Na → 2 C4H9ONa + H2
Explanation:
1. Sodium donates an electron: Sodium is a highly reactive metal and readily loses an electron to form a sodium cation (Na+).
2. Hydrogen atom is released: The donated electron from sodium interacts with the hydrogen atom of the hydroxyl group (-OH) in butanol. This results in the release of hydrogen gas (H2).
3. Formation of Butanoxide: The remaining part of the butanol molecule, with a negative charge, is now a butanoxide ion (C4H9O-).
4. Salt Formation: The sodium cation (Na+) and the butanoxide ion (C4H9O-) combine to form sodium butanoxide (C4H9ONa), which is a salt.
Observations:
* Bubbles: You'll observe the formation of bubbles, which are hydrogen gas (H2).
* Heat Generation: The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.
* Disappearance of Sodium: The sodium metal will gradually disappear as it reacts with butanol.
Note: This reaction is similar to the reaction of sodium with other alcohols, like ethanol. However, the reaction rate and intensity may vary depending on the type of alcohol used.
