# Sodium reacts with water to produce sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. Explain why it is important to check the hazard symbols on the chemical containers before carrying out this reaction, and describe one safety precaution a student should take when handling sodium.

> Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) — 0 Formulae, equations and hazards · Explain · 4 marks

> Sodium is a highly reactive metal that must be stored under oil to prevent it from reacting with moisture in the air. When a small piece of sodium is placed in water, it reacts vigorously.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Hazard symbols communicate the dangers/hazards associated with a chemical so that the user knows the risks before handling it
2. This allows appropriate safety precautions to be chosen / prevents injury or accident
3. Sodium is corrosive / flammable / harmful / reacts violently with water (any one correct hazard property of sodium)
4. A correct safety precaution when handling sodium, e.g. use forceps/tongs (not bare hands), wear safety goggles, wear gloves, use only a small piece of sodium, keep away from water until ready

## Key terms

- [hazard symbol](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/hazard-symbol)
- [safety precaution](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/safety-precaution)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/sodium-reacts-with-water-to-produce-e51dd9e9) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.