Potassium and sodium react violently with cold water, producing metal hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The reaction is so exothermic that the evolved hydrogen immediately catches fire.
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Potassium and sodium react violently with cold water, producing metal hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The reaction is so exothermic that the evolved hydrogen immediately catches fire.
The reaction of potassium and sodium with water is highly exothermic and vigorous. When these alkali metals come into contact with water, they undergo a rapid reaction, forming metal hydroxides and releasing hydrogen gas. The metal hydroxide formed is water-soluble, creating an alkaline solution. The overall reaction for potassium (K) is:
2K(s) + 2H₂O(l) → 2KOH(aq) + H₂(g)
And for sodium (Na):
2Na(s) + 2H₂O(l) → 2NaOH(aq) + H₂(g)