Specific weight of sodium, properties, uses and value table

Sodium is a chemical element of the first group of the periodic table and one of the alkali metals. In nature it does not occur in free form because of its high chemical activity, but it is widespread in compounds, especially sodium chloride, seawater and various minerals.

Metallic sodium is a soft silvery-white metal. Because it reacts actively with air and moisture, it is usually stored under kerosene or in another protective medium.

Table of sodium specific weight

The exact density of sodium is determined from reference data or laboratory measurements. At about 20 °C, sodium density is approximately 0.97 g/cm3. This means that 1 m3 of sodium weighs about 970 kg.

Specific weight and weight of 1 m3 of sodium

Properties of sodium

Sodium is very soft and ductile: a fresh cut has a characteristic metallic luster, but it quickly tarnishes in air. The melting point of sodium is about 97.8 °C, and its boiling point is about 883 °C.

The metal oxidizes easily in air and reacts actively with water, releasing hydrogen and forming an alkali. The reaction can be accompanied by heating and ignition, so metallic sodium requires careful handling and storage.

Sodium reacts with many nonmetals and forms many important compounds. The best-known compound is sodium chloride, ordinary table salt.

Biological role of sodium

Sodium ions are present in tissues, organs and biological fluids of living organisms. Together with potassium, sodium participates in maintaining water-salt balance and normal cell function.

Main functions of sodium in the body include:

• participation in membrane potential formation and nerve impulse conduction;
• maintenance of osmotic pressure in blood and intercellular fluid;
• participation in acid-base and water balance;
• participation in transport of substances across cell membranes;
• influence on muscle function and some enzyme systems.

Applications of sodium

Sodium is widely used in the chemical industry, metallurgy, energy systems and laboratory practice. The main importance of metallic sodium is connected with its strong reducing ability and thermal conductivity.

Main applications include:

• use in the chemical industry and preparative chemistry as a strong reducing agent;
• production of sodium-sulfur batteries;
• use in selected heat-transfer systems and special coolants;
• use in low-pressure and high-pressure sodium discharge lamps;
• use in laboratory practice and organic synthesis;
• production of sodium compounds, including sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate and other substances.