Sodium ethoxide

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Sodium ethoxide
Names
IUPAC name
Sodium ethoxide
Other names
Ethoxysodium
Sodium ethylate
Properties
C2H5ONa
Molar mass 68.05 g/mol
Appearance White crystalline solid
Odor Odorless (pure)
Alcoholic (hydrolyzed)
Density 0.868 g/cm3 (of a 21 wt% solution in ethanol)
Melting point 260 °C (500 °F; 533 K)
Boiling point Decomposes
Reacts
Solubility Reacts with carboxylic acids
Soluble in ethanol, methanol
Vapor pressure 0.75 mmHg (20 °C)
Acidity (pKa) 15.5
Hazards
Safety data sheet Sigma-Aldrich
Flash point 30 °C (closed cup)
Related compounds
Related compounds
Sodium methoxide
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
Infobox references

Sodium ethoxide (C2H5ONa) is a white to yellowish powder, which readily hydrolyzes in water and moist air.

Properties

Chemical

Sodium ethoxide readily hydrolyzes in contact with water, releasing lots of heat.

Physical

Sodium ethoxide is a colorless solid, which reacts with water.

Availability

Sodium ethoxide is sold by chemical suppliers.

Preparation

Sodium ethoxide can be prepared by adding sodium metal to anhydrous ethanol. Cooling the solution will cause the compound the crystallize. Do this reaction in a dry atmosphere, to limit hydrolysis.

Projects

  • Make esters

Handling

Safety

Sodium ethoxide is caustic and contact with skin will cause chemical burns. Reaction with water will give ethanol and lots of heat, which may ignite the alcohol vapors.

Storage

Sodium ethoxide should be stored in air-tight containers, or in a desiccator. Schlenk flasks are a good choice.

Disposal

Sodium ethoxide can be neutralized by dissolving it in large amounts of water slowly, then neutralize the resulting sodium hydroxide. Sodium bicarbonate can be used.

References

Relevant Sciencemadness threads