Reaction of metal + oxygen

• Sodium + oxygen -> sodium oxide

  Na + O2 -> Na2O
• Group 1 metals:

  • Example: Lithium, Sodium, Potassium
  • Also known as alkali metal.
  • They are soft metal (can be cut with a knife)
  • Have low melting point compared to other metals
  • The metal looks dull because it is covered by oil as it reacts very quickly with oxygen in the air. It appears shiny when freshly cut.
  • Is very reactive with water - so it needs to be covered with oil