Question

What are the products of the reaction between the Hydride Ion (`H^-`) with water?

Answer 1

Dihydrogen gas, and hydroxide anion.

Explanation:

`H^(-) + H_2O(l) rarr H_2(g)uarr + HO^-`

If we used sodium or lithium hydride:

`NaH(s) + H_2O(l) rarr H_2(g)uarr + NaOH(aq)`

or calcium hydride:

`CaH_2(s) + 2H_2O(l)rarr Ca(OH)_2(aq) +2H_2(g)uarr`

Calcium hydride is a commonly used drying agent for organic solvents.