* Sodium is a metal: Metals tend to lose electrons, forming positive ions (cations).
* Sodium has a low ionization energy: This means it takes relatively little energy to remove an electron from a sodium atom, making it easy for sodium to become positively charged.
This combination of properties makes sodium highly reactive and prone to combining with other elements. Here are some examples:
* With non-metals:
* Oxygen: Sodium reacts vigorously with oxygen to form sodium oxide (Na₂O).
* Chlorine: Sodium reacts with chlorine to form sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt.
* Water: Sodium reacts violently with water, releasing hydrogen gas and heat.
* With other metals: Sodium can form alloys with other metals, such as potassium, lead, and mercury.
Important Note: Sodium's reactivity makes it dangerous to handle in pure form. It must be stored in oil or inert atmospheres to prevent reactions with air or water.
