Properties


 * [[image:imagesCASACIQ5.jpg caption="http://www.google.com/imgres?q=sodium+by+products&um"]]


 * occurs in many other minerals, such as soda niter, cryolite, amphibole, zeolite, etc.
 * a very reactive element
 * never found free in nature
 * soft
 * bright, silvery
 * floats on water
 * decomposition in water results in the evolution of hydrogen into the formation of hydroxide
 * It normally does not ignite in air at temperatures below 115°C.


 * Thirteen isotopes of sodium are recognized


 * Sodium metal should be handled with great care.
 * cannot be maintained in an inert atmosphere and contact with water and other substances with which sodium reacts should be avoided. ||
 * * sodium is a Group 1 element (or IA in older labelling styles).
 * Group 1 elements are often referred to as the "alkali metals".
 * The chemistry of sodium is dominated by the +1 ion Na+.
 * Sodium salts impart a characteristic orange/yellow colour to flames and orange street lighting is orange because of the presence of sodium in the lamp. ||