Question

Which of the following will liberate H${}_2$ when reacting with NaOH?

• A. Be
• B. Na
• C. Al
• D. Zn

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (C), (D)

The correct options are
A

Be

C

Al

D

Zn

Na does not react with NaOH. We have already seen that Zn liberates H${}_2$ when reacting with NaOH. Similar to Zn, Al also reacts with NaOH to liberate H${}_2$.

2Al + 2NaOH + 2H${}_2$O $⟶$ 2NaAlO${}_2$ + 3H${}_2$

Sodium Meta Aluminate

2Al + 6NaOH $\stackrel{fuse}{⟶}$ 2NaAlO${}_2$ + 3H${}_2$

Sodium Aluminate

Be + 2NaOH $⟶$ Na${}_2$BeO${}_2$ + H${}_2$

Sodium Beryillate