The Explosive Reaction of Sodium and Calcium Carbide with Dry Orbeez

🔥The initial explosion when sodium reacts with water is actually due to ion repulsion of the sodium ions.

💦Orbeez are a super absorbent polymer that absorbs a large amount of water.

💣Dropping sodium metal on dry Orbeez results in a slower and less explosive reaction compared to dropping it in water.

🔵Calcium carbide reacts with water to produce acetylene gas, resulting in a burning effect when placed on Orbeez.

🧪The reaction between sodium and Orbeez forms sodium hydroxide, increasing the pH of the substance.

What causes the initial explosion when sodium reacts with water?

—The initial explosion is caused by ion repulsion of the sodium ions in the water.

Why do dry Orbeez react differently to sodium compared to when they are in water?

—Dry Orbeez do not have as much available water for the sodium to react with, resulting in a slower and less explosive reaction.

What is the product of the reaction between calcium carbide and water?

—The reaction between calcium carbide and water produces acetylene gas.

Why does the pH of the Orbeez increase when sodium reacts with them?

—The reaction between sodium and Orbeez forms sodium hydroxide, a basic compound that increases the pH.

What are some safety precautions when conducting these experiments?

—It is important to handle sodium and calcium carbide with caution as they can be hazardous. Safety goggles and protective clothing should be worn, and experiments should be performed in a well-ventilated area.

00:00In this video, we explore the reactions of sodium and calcium carbide with dry Orbeez.

00:49Dropping sodium metal in water quickly forms sodium ions, resulting in an explosive reaction due to ion repulsion.

03:13When sodium is dropped on dry Orbeez, the reaction is slower and less explosive compared to when it is in water.

07:23Calcium carbide reacts with water to produce acetylene gas, which results in a burning effect when placed on Orbeez.

09:40The reaction between sodium and Orbeez forms sodium hydroxide, increasing the pH and making the Orbeez caustic.