What is the difference between sodium and sodium metal?

Thread starter taregg
Start date Aug 4, 2014
Tags

Sodium

In summary, sodium is a chemical element with the symbol Na and atomic number 11, while sodium chloride is a compound made up of sodium and chlorine ions. It is unique compared to other elements in the periodic table due to its highly reactive nature and abundance on Earth. While sodium is not the same as salt, it is a major component of it. Sodium can be found naturally in its pure form, but is typically found in compounds. It is used in everyday life for various purposes such as in the production of glass, soaps, and detergents, as well as being a key electrolyte in the human body and used in the production of medications and food additives.

Aug 4, 2014

taregg

I buy pure sodium fom laptory store it looks white and powder like a sugar. ...I putted in water and doest burn...is this sodium

Physics news on Phys.org

Aug 4, 2014

sophiecentaur

Science Advisor

Gold Member

Your 'sodium' is a salt of sodium and not sodium metal (pure).

1. What is the difference between sodium and sodium chloride?

Sodium is a chemical element with the symbol Na and atomic number 11. Sodium chloride, also known as table salt, is a compound made up of sodium and chlorine ions.

2. How does sodium differ from other elements in the periodic table?

Sodium is a highly reactive alkali metal and is the sixth most abundant element on Earth. It is unique in its physical and chemical properties compared to other elements in the periodic table.

3. Is sodium the same as salt?

No, sodium is a pure element while salt is a compound made up of sodium and chlorine ions. However, sodium is a major component of salt.

4. Can sodium be found naturally in its pure form?

Yes, sodium can be found in its pure form in nature, but it is highly reactive and is usually found in compounds such as sodium chloride.

5. How is sodium used in everyday life?

Sodium is used in a variety of ways in everyday life, including in the production of glass, soaps, and detergents. It is also a key electrolyte in the human body and is used in the production of certain medications and food additives.