Reaction of Ethanol with Sodium – A Class 12 Science Experiment
The reaction of ethanol with sodium is a classic example of a metal-alcohol chemical reaction. When ethanol, a common alcohol, interacts with sodium metal, it produces sodium ethoxide and hydrogen gas. This is a single displacement reaction where the metal sodium replaces the hydrogen atom in ethanol.
Understanding the Science Behind It
When ethanol (C₂H₅OH) comes into contact with metallic sodium (Na), sodium actively displaces the hydrogen from the hydroxyl group (-OH) in ethanol. The resulting products are sodium ethoxide (C₂H₅ONa) and hydrogen gas (H₂), which escapes as bubbles (effervescence). This process is highly exothermic, meaning it releases heat and must be done with caution.
The Balanced Chemical Reaction:
2C₂H₅OH + 2Na → 2C₂H₅ONa + H₂↑
- Ethanol reacts with sodium to form sodium ethoxide and hydrogen gas.
- This is a vigorous reaction, so only a small amount of sodium is used in a controlled environment.
Why Is This Important?
- Sodium ethoxide is a strong base and used in organic synthesis, especially for Claisen condensation and Aldol reactions.
- Demonstrates the reactivity of alkali metals with alcohols.
- It is a safe way to generate hydrogen gas in the lab setting.
Observations in the Lab
- Bubbling indicates the release of hydrogen gas.
- A pop sound confirms the presence of hydrogen when a lit match is brought near the test tube.
- Formation of a white solid — sodium ethoxide.
| Reactants | Products | Observation |
|---|---|---|
| C₂H₅OH + Na | C₂H₅ONa + H₂↑ | Popping sound due to hydrogen evolution, and white-colored sodium ethoxide is formed. |
Experience the Reaction of Ethanol Experiment with Dencity
With the Dencity virtual lab, students from class 12 science can perform this reaction virtually, safely observing every step of the process. Dencity is a virtual science lab available on Android, iOS, and Desktop, allowing students to conduct science experiments without handling real chemicals or worrying about lab hazards.
- Real-time simulations let students see how ethanol and sodium interact.
- Interactive learning makes the experiment memorable and fun.
- All reactions are explained with step-by-step calculations and visual effects, enhancing conceptual understanding.
Dencity for Teachers
Dencity supports interactive teaching by offering:
- A virtual classroom to guide students through experiments.
- Ability to assign and assess homework instantly.
- Live control handovers, enabling students to participate directly.
- Automated reports on student performance.
This helps in making science more engaging and reduces time spent on manual evaluations.
Optimized for Interactive Touch Panels
Dencity works seamlessly on interactive touch panels, allowing teachers to control experiments with touch gestures during classroom teaching. It enhances the overall science lab experience for students and teachers alike.
Educational Institutions – Let’s Collaborate
If you’re a school or educational body looking to enhance your science curriculum with safe, scalable, and immersive virtual tools, contact us for customized pricing or to schedule a demo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is formed when ethanol reacts with sodium?
Sodium ethoxide and hydrogen gas are formed. - Why does hydrogen gas evolve during this experiment?
Sodium displaces the hydrogen from the ethanol’s hydroxyl group. - Is this reaction safe for students?
Physically, it’s risky, but Dencity makes it completely safe in a virtual environment. - Why is the reaction exothermic?
Because it releases heat during the chemical transformation. - What does the white solid residue represent?
It’s sodium ethoxide, the product of the reaction. - Why is there a popping sound in the test tube?
It confirms the presence of hydrogen gas. - Can this experiment be done without actual chemicals?
Yes, through the Dencity app’s virtual simulations. - What makes Dencity suitable for class 12 students?
It aligns with their syllabus and includes complex experiments in an interactive format. - How do teachers benefit from Dencity?
By conducting remote live experiments, auto-assigning homework, and tracking performance. - Is Dencity compatible with school touch panels?
Yes, it is fully optimized for interactive classroom touchscreens.
