When sodium metal, Na , reacts with water, hydrogen gas, H2, and sodium hydroxide, NaOH , in sol

step 1 In this question we are asked to write a balanced chemical equation. There are basically two ste

When sodium metal, Na , reacts with water, hydrogen gas, H2,...

When sodium metal, Na , reacts with water, hydrogen gas, $\mathrm{H}_2$, and sodium hydroxide, NaOH , in solution are produced. Write a balanced equation for the reaction, and explain how a basic solution is produced.

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Key Concepts

Alkali Metal Reactivity

Alkali metals are known for their vigorous reactions with water. This reactivity is due to their low ionization energy, which allows them to lose electrons easily during the redox reaction with water, producing metal hydroxides and hydrogen gas.

Balanced Chemical Equations

Writing a balanced chemical equation ensures that the law of conservation of mass is maintained in a chemical reaction. For the reaction between sodium and water, stoichiometric coefficients are adjusted so that the number of atoms for each element is equal on both the reactant and product sides.

Production of Hydrogen Gas

In the reaction, the reduction of water molecules occurs as sodium donates electrons, leading to the liberation of hydrogen gas. This exemplifies a typical redox process where a metal reacts with a compound to release a diatomic element such as H?.

Formation of Basic Solutions

The reaction produces sodium hydroxide, which is a strong base. Upon dissolution in water, sodium hydroxide dissociates into sodium ions and hydroxide ions, and the resulting concentration of hydroxide ions is what makes the solution basic with a high pH.

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