Sodium (symbol Na, atomic number 11) is an alkali chemical element widely found in nature, primarily in the form of salts. It plays a fundamental role in many biological processes, particularly in maintaining electrolyte balance and nerve transmission.
Contribution of Sodium to Vital Processes
Sodium is essential for the functioning of nerve and muscle cells. It is involved in creating electrochemical gradients across cell membranes, thus facilitating nerve signals and muscle contraction.
History of Discovery
1807: First isolation by Humphry Davy Sodium was first isolated by the British chemist Humphry Davy through the electrolysis of soda (NaOH). He obtained it in metallic form by applying an electric current to a molten soda solution.
1825: Recognition of metallic sodium Researchers quickly realized that sodium was a highly reactive metal, unable to exist in free form in nature due to its strong reactivity with water and air.
Atomic Structure
Constitution: The sodium atom has 11 protons, 11 neutrons, and 11 electrons, with an electron configuration of 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s¹. Isotopes:
Sodium-23 (²³Na): stable isotope, representing 100% of natural sodium.
Physical Properties
Soft, silvery alkali metal.
Molar mass: 22.990 g/mol
Melting point: 371.0 K (97.85 °C)
Boiling point: 1156 K (883 °C)
Density: ~0.971 g/cm³ (at 20 °C)
Highly reactive with water, forming sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen gas (H₂).
Chemical Reactivity
Sodium reacts vigorously with water, producing heat, sodium hydroxide, and hydrogen gas.
Reacts with oxygen to form sodium oxide (Na₂O) or sodium peroxide (Na₂O₂).
Can react with halogens to form sodium halides (e.g., NaCl with chlorine).
Used in the production of various chemical compounds, including sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH).
Industrial and Technological Applications
Used in the manufacture of caustic soda (NaOH) and sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), fundamental compounds for many industries.
Used in the production of glass, soap, detergents, and water treatment.
Employed in the manufacture of organic chemicals, including in the pharmaceutical industry for drug production.
Use in sodium-ion batteries, an emerging alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
Biological and Ecological Role
Sodium is essential for water and electrolyte balance in living organisms.
Involved in nerve and muscle function by enabling nerve impulse transmission.
The concentration of sodium in the blood must be maintained within a narrow range to ensure normal bodily functions.
Environmental and Industrial Challenges
Sodium, in the form of sodium hydroxide (NaOH), can be hazardous to the environment due to its corrosive nature.
Large quantities of sodium used in industrial processes can contribute to water pollution if not properly managed.
Although abundant, sodium is primarily extracted from minerals, raising questions about the sustainability of its long-term exploitation.
