Sodium, an element on the periodic table, was discovered in 1807 by Sir Humphrey Davy. Davy discovered sodium by using electrolysis of very dry molten sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The sodium was then collected at the cathodes. Sodium's position on the periodic table tells us a great deal about how it will react with other elements to form compounds. For instance, sodium is an Alkali metal which is group 1 and in period 3. Sodium like all alkali metals share certain properties. Sodium is a soft, silvery, white metal that is easily cut. At first, the surface is shiny, but soon it becomes dull when it comes in contact with air. Sodium is a highly reactive metal. When it comes into contact with water it is highly explosive. It's actually pretty awesome to think that something potentially dangerous can also be beneficial to us when combined with other elements.Got Sodium?
Audrey Sheddy, GIT/WEB PAGE
The origin of the name sodium comes from the English word "soda." As stated before, sodium is very important to humans. Humans can lose vast amounts of sodium by sweating, when this occurs the sodium that was lost must be replenished with a proper diet. Sodium, which is important in sustaining life, can also be harmful when there is an over abundance of it in a person's diet.
There are many interesting facts about sodium that I know you'll want to explore. Click on the links below to find out more and maybe even some other "cool stuff" you never even thought of.
To find out the chemical symbol for sodium.
I bet you are wondering why the symbol is different from the actual name of the element sodium.
Can you believe there is an important sodium compound that protects your panty hose, perks up your coffee, and cuts rust.