Question

What happens when sodium reacts with cold water?

Answer 1

The reaction of sodium(Na) with cold water(H₂O) results in the formation of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen (H₂) gas.

2Na (s) + 2H₂O (l) $\to$ 2NaOH (aq) + H₂ (g)

The reaction is highly exothermic

Exothermic reaction: Heat will be released in a huge amount.

• The hydrogen may catch fire and burn with orange colour because of the heat produced an explosion will take place.