How Do You Preserve Sodium?
To preserve sodium, a highly reactive metal, it is essential to store it in specific conditions that prevent contact with reactive substances, particularly water and air. The primary method involves submerging it in a protective liquid within a sealed container.
Preserving sodium effectively relies on isolating it from environments where it can react. Based on safety protocols, the correct preservation method involves:
- Using a Closed Container: Sodium must be stored in a container that is tightly sealed to prevent exposure to the atmosphere.
- Storing Under Protective Liquids: Sodium must be stored in a closed container under kerosene, toluene, or mineral oil. These liquids act as barriers, preventing contact with air and moisture.
Substances to Avoid and Why
Sodium reacts vigorously with several common substances, making it crucial to avoid them during storage:
- Water and Moisture: Contact with water should be avoided because sodium reacts violently with water.
- Oxidizing Agents: Sodium should be stored away from oxidizing agents.
The Violent Reaction with Water
The reaction between sodium and water is particularly dangerous:
- Sodium reacts with water to form hydrogen (Hâ‚‚).
- This reaction leads to the evolution of sufficient heat to cause ignition.
- The heat ignites the hydrogen gas produced, which can result in fire or explosion.
For these reasons, it is critical to store away from water and moisture.
Properly storing sodium under kerosene, toluene, or mineral oil in a closed container is the standard and safest method to preserve its metallic form and prevent hazardous reactions.
