Lithium, sodium, and potassium all react with water. What might you observe when each of these metals reacts with water?

1 Answer
anor277
Nov 8, 2016

A fizz and a bang and a pop.

Explanation:

#M(s) + H_2O(l) rarr MOH(aq) + 1/2H_2(g)uarr#

Lithium will be the least reactive of the metals, but the reaction will still be quite vigorous. Sodium will be a little bit more active. With potassium, you might see a few flames. If a little phenolphthalein had been added to the water solution (phenolphthalein is a good acid base indicator whose basic form is pink!) what would you expect to see?

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