How can I make a sodium anion (Na-)?

Thread starter ProjectFringe
Start date Jun 5, 2021
Tags

Sodium

AI Thread Summary

The discussion centers on the existence of the sodium anion, commonly referred to as the alkalide. While sodium typically loses an electron to form a cation (Na+), research indicates that under specific conditions, sodium can gain an electron to form Na-. This anion is rare and primarily exists in certain compounds or environments, such as in metal clusters or when sodium is combined with highly electronegative elements. The formation of the sodium anion involves unique chemical reactions that allow for the stabilization of the extra electron, which is not typical for sodium in standard conditions. The reference to research papers highlights ongoing scientific interest in the properties and applications of alkalides.

Jun 5, 2021

ProjectFringe

I tried to find out if the anion of sodium exists and I saw reference to it in some research papers. I realize that it would be uncommon because Na would most likely give up its electron rather than get another electron. So, does it really exist and if so how is it formed?

Chemistry news on Phys.org

Jun 5, 2021

TeethWhitener

Science Advisor

Gold Member

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alkalide

Jun 5, 2021

ProjectFringe

Thanks!

Thread 'Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025'

https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/chemistry/2025/popular-information/

View full post »

Thread 'Ruthenium-Iridium compound with catalytic effects'

Engineers slash iridium use in electrolyzer catalyst by 80%, boosting path to affordable green hydrogen https://news.rice.edu/news/2025/engineers-slash-iridium-use-electrolyzer-catalyst-80-boosting-path-affordable-green Ruthenium is also fairly expensive (a year ago it was about $490/ troy oz, but has nearly doubled in price over the past year, now about $910/ troy oz). I tracks prices of Pt, Pd, Ru, Ir and Ru. Of the 5 metals, rhodium (Rh) is the most expensive. A year ago, Rh and Ir...

View full post »