Alkali Metals: Sodium & Its Compounds
Alkali metals belong to the s-block elements occupying the leftmost side of the periodic table. Alkali metals readily lose electrons, making them count among the most reactive elements on Earth. In general ‘alkali’ refers to the basic or alkaline nature of their metal hydroxides. The compounds are called alkali metals because when they react with water they usually form alkalis which are nothing but strong bases that can easily neutralize acids. Alkali metals have a corresponding [Noble gas] ns1 electronic configuration. They occupy the first column of the periodic table. Alkali elements are Lithium(Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Rubidium (Rb), Cesium (Cs), and Francium (Fr) occupying successive periods from first to seven.
Syllabus:
General characteristics of alkali metals; Sodium [extraction from Down’s process, properties (action with Oxygen, water, acids nonmetals, and ammonia) and uses]; Properties (precipitation reaction and action with carbon monoxide) and uses of sodium hydroxide; Properties (action with CO2, SO2, water, precipitation reactions) and uses of sodium carbonate.