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Which of the following metals is stored in kerosene to prevent reaction with air and moisture?
Magnesium
Sodium
Aluminum
Copper
Sodium
Sodium is a highly reactive alkali metal that reacts vigorously with atmospheric oxygen and moisture. To prevent these spontaneous exothermic reactions, it is stored submerged in kerosene, an inert hydrocarbon oil that acts as a barrier.
Sodium is a highly reactive alkali metal that reacts vigorously with atmospheric oxygen and moisture. To prevent these spontaneous exothermic reactions, it is stored submerged in kerosene, an inert hydrocarbon oil that acts as a barrier.
Storing sodium in kerosene is like wrapping a highly sensitive electronic device in waterproof plastic to protect it from humidity.
NAS (Sodium-Air-Safety): Sodium Always Stored (in) kerosene.
2Na+2H2тАЛOтЖТ2NaOH+H2тАЛтЖС тАФ Reaction with moisture
4Na+O2тАЛтЖТ2Na2тАЛO тАФ Reaction with atmospheric oxygen
Sodium has a very low ionization energy, making it prone to electron loss. When exposed to air, it reacts to form sodium oxide (4Na+O2тАЛтЖТ2Na2тАЛO) and sodium hydroxide upon contact with water (2Na+2H2тАЛOтЖТ2NaOH+H2тАЛ). Kerosene is non-polar and does not react with sodium, effectively isolating the metal from reactive species.
Sodium is an alkali metal belonging to Group 1 of the periodic table.
The reaction of sodium with water is highly exothermic and releases flammable hydrogen gas.
Kerosene serves as a protective liquid shield due to its lack of reactivity with alkali metals.
Prevents fire hazards
Maintains chemical purity of the metal
Provides a simple, cost-effective storage medium
Kerosene is flammable and poses a secondary fire risk
Requires proper ventilation to avoid inhalation of hydrocarbon vapors
Laboratory storage of alkali metals
Use in organic synthesis as a reducing agent
Potassium is also stored in kerosene for similar reasons due to its high reactivity.
Option A (Magnesium) forms a protective oxide layer and does not require kerosene. Option C (Aluminum) forms a stable, non-porous passivation layer. Option D (Copper) is a noble-like metal that does not react with water at room temperature.
B is correct тАФ Sodium is highly reactive and must be kept in kerosene to prevent it from reacting with moisture and oxygen in the air.
Always remember that reactivity increases down Group 1; therefore, all alkali metals (Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs) require special storage conditions, usually oil or vacuum-sealed ampoules.
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