Sodium amide facts for kids
Sodium amide, also known as sodamide, is a chemical compound. It is made of sodium and amide parts. Its chemical formula is NaNH2.
Sodium amide is a very strong chemical base. It is even stronger than common bases like sodium hydroxide. It reacts strongly and quickly with water.
Contents
What it Looks Like and Smells Like
Sodium amide is usually a white solid. Sometimes it can look gray. It has a smell similar to ammonia.
How it's Made
This compound is made by mixing sodium metal with liquid or gaseous ammonia. This reaction creates sodium amide.
What it's Used For
Sodium amide is an important chemical used in many ways. It helps make other chemicals, including hydrazine and sodium azide. It is also used to create various other chemical substances.
Safety First
Sodium amide is a dangerous chemical. It reacts very strongly with water, which can be risky. When it burns in air, it can form sodium and nitrogen oxides, like nitrogen dioxide. If there is not enough air, it can even form explosive chemicals.
If sodium amide changes color and turns yellow or brown, it means it is becoming unstable. If this happens, it should be handled very carefully and disposed of right away. Because it is a strong base, it is also corrosive. This means it can damage skin or other materials it touches.
Images for kids
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Structural formula of sodium amide
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Ball and stick, unit cell model of sodium amide
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