What happens when ethanol reacts with sodium? Describe the reaction and any observations you would expect.

When ethanol reacts with sodium, it produces sodium ethoxide and hydrogen gas. The reaction is exothermic, and you would observe bubbles of hydrogen gas being released, and the sodium may dissolve in the ethanol.

This question tests the understanding of the reactivity of alcohols with metals, specifically sodium. It assesses knowledge of the products formed and the observable changes during the reaction. This response is aligned to Alcohols because it explains investigate reactions of alcohols. (AT 2, 5, 6) using the correct AQA GCSE Chemistry organic context. Keep molecular formula, structural formula, displayed formula, and general formula distinct. Do not confuse alkanes with alkenes, saturated with unsaturated, cracking with combustion, polymers with monomers, or hydrocarbons with oxygen-containing alcohols and carboxylic acids. When formulae are used, preserve the stored notation exactly and explain the GCSE chemistry idea in words rather than using unsupported displayed-formula diagrams. This response is aligned to Alcohols because it explains investigate reactions of alcohols. (AT 2, 5, 6) using the correct AQA GCSE Chemistry organic context. Keep molecular formula, structural formula, displayed formula, and general formula distinct. Do not confuse alkanes with alkenes, saturated with unsaturated, cracking with combustion, polymers with monomers, or hydrocarbons with oxygen-containing alcohols and carboxylic acids. When formulae are used, preserve the stored notation exactly and explain the GCSE chemistry idea in words rather than using unsupported displayed-formula diagrams.