Oxidation of Sodium
Description: A small piece of sodium is placed in water containing phenolphtalein. A pink trail ensues as the sodium moves over the water surface.
This demonstration is also available on video and JCE Software “Chemistry Comes Alive!” CD-Rom.
Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z. Chemical Demonstrations: A Sourcebook for Teachers; 2nd Edition
Source: “Chemistry Comes Alive”
Year: 1999 Vol. 76 Page 1311
Keywords: Sodium, Phenolphthalein, Water, Hydroxide
Ratings:
Hazard: Medium
- Flammability hazard
- Produces flammable gas during reaction
- Skin corrosion hazard
- Mild toxicity hazard
- Mutagenicity hazard
- Electric shock hazard
- Spill hazard
Effectiveness: Good
- Good connection from demo to course material
- Results are observable with guidance
- High reliability
- Time to results is low
- Moderate effects are seen by audience
- Primary and secondary effects are observed
Difficulty: Medium
- Sequential steps required
- Procedures with some intermediate steps to results
- Some sequential manipulations
- Demos in which a display is used
Safety Precautions:
- Eye protection required
- Gloves required
- Avoid inhalation of vapors or droplets during presentation
- ABC fire extinguisher on hand
- Absorbent material on hand
- Tongs recommended
- Perform on a chemically resistant surface
- Handle liquids with care
- Use of UL approved three-prong plug and outlet if necessary
- Perform in a well-ventilated area
Class: Oxidation Reaction, Gas Producing Reaction
Division: General
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