Here are 10 interesting facts about sodium metal.

Here are 10 interesting facts about sodium metal:

1. **Highly Reactive**: Sodium is highly reactive, especially with water. When it comes into contact with water, it produces sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas, often resulting in an explosive reaction.

2. **Soft Metal**: Sodium is a soft, silvery-white metal. It is so soft that it can be cut with a knife.

3. **Essential Element**: Sodium is an essential element for all living organisms. It plays a crucial role in nerve function and fluid balance in the body.

4. **Abundance**: Sodium is the sixth most abundant element on Earth. It is most commonly found in the form of sodium chloride, or table salt.

5. **Discovered by Electrolysis**: Sodium was first isolated by Sir Humphry Davy in 1807 through the electrolysis of molten sodium hydroxide.

6. **Lustrous Appearance**: Freshly cut sodium has a bright, shiny appearance, but it tarnishes quickly when exposed to air due to oxidation.

7. **Low Density**: Sodium has a lower density than water. This means it can float on water, which is unusual for metals.

8. **Flame Test**: Sodium burns with a bright yellow flame. This property is used in flame tests to identify the presence of sodium in compounds.

9. **Compounds in Everyday Life**: Sodium compounds are ubiquitous in daily life, with common examples including table salt (sodium chloride) and baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).

10. **Medical Uses**: Sodium compounds, such as sodium chloride (saline), are widely used in medical treatments for rehydration and electrolyte balance.