Question

A solution of sodium metal in liquid ammonia is strongly reducing due to the presence of

• A. sodium atoms
• B. Sodium hydride
• C. Sodium amide
• D. solvated electrons

Answer 1

The correct option is D solvated electrons

The free ammoniated electrons make the solution of Na in liquid $N{H}_3$ a very powerful reducing agent.
Note: The ammonical solution of an alkali metal is rather favoured as a reducing agent than its aqueous solution because in aqueous solution the alkali metal being highly electropositive evolves hydrogen from water (thus $H_{2}O$ acts as an oxidising agent) while its solution in ammonia is quite stable, provided no catalyst (transition metal) is present.