8651. Sodium Oxide

Nomenclature

CAS number: 1313-59-3
Sodium monoxide.
Na2O; mol wt 61.98.
Na 74.18%, O 25.81%.

Properties

White, amorphous pieces or powder. d 2.27. Melts at a dull red heat and begins to dec >400° into sodium peroxide and metal. It is very reactive and combines violently with water, forming sodium hydroxide. Handle with tongs and not with bare hands, and keep tightly closed.

Use

As a dehydrating agent; in certain chemical reactions as a polymerizing or condensing agent.