Here's why:
* Sodium's Electron Configuration: Sodium has 11 electrons. Its electron configuration is 2, 8, 1. That lone electron in the outermost shell is very loosely held.
* Tendency to Lose Electrons: Sodium has a strong tendency to lose that single outer electron to achieve a stable octet (8 electrons) in its outermost shell. This makes it more stable and similar to the noble gas Neon.
* Formation of a Cation: When sodium loses an electron, it becomes a positively charged ion called a sodium cation (Na+).
In summary, sodium is a very reactive metal that readily loses its outermost electron to become a stable cation.
