Question

The reaction of sodium is highly exothermic with H₂O. The rate of reaction is lowered by

• A. Lowering the temperature
• B. Mixing with alcohol
• C. Mixing with acetic acid
• D. Making an amalgam

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Making an amalgam

Sodium amalgam, commonly denoted Na(Hg), is an alloy of mercury and sodium.
Na(Hg) is less reactive than Na. It will decrease the rate of reaction.

Sodium is highly reactive with water and decreasing the temperature does not decrease the rate of the reaction if we consider Le Chatelier's principle.
Sodium reacts with alcohol and acetic acid also. They will not affect the rate of reaction of sodium with water.