Sodium is a group I element placed in 3rd period of the periodic table of elements. It is a metal and has a silvery-white appearance. It is extremely soft and can be cut with a knife. Sodium metal is not present in the free form in environment. It is an extremely reactive element and readily reacts with water and air. Thus, a pure piece of sodium metal will lose its silvery appearance if exposed to air. Its reactivity can be attributed to a single valence electron (atomic number= 11, electronic configuration: 1s2, 2s2, 2p6, 3s1). It is a solid at room temperature and has a relatively low melting point (about 97.8 degrees Celsius).
Sodium is essential for all living beings, including human beings. Our most common source of sodium is the common salt, sodium chloride (NaCl).
Hope this helps.
No comments:
Post a Comment