Question:medium

Which gas is evolved when Sodium metal reacts with Ethanol?

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Active metals like sodium react with alcohols to release hydrogen gas by replacing the acidic hydrogen of the \(-OH\) group.
Updated On: Apr 29, 2026
  • Oxygen
  • Hydrogen
  • Nitrogen
  • Carbon dioxide
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Topic - Organic Chemistry (Alcohols):
This question concerns the acidic nature of alcohols and their reactions with active metals.
Step 1: Understanding the Question:
We need to identify the gaseous byproduct formed when sodium metal is added to ethanol.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Alcohols react with active metals (like Na, K, Mg) to form metal alkoxides and release hydrogen gas. This reaction confirms the presence of the acidic hydrogen in the \(-OH\) group.
Step 3: Detailed Solution:
1. The chemical formula for ethanol is \(C_2H_5OH\).
2. When Sodium (\(Na\)) reacts with it:
\[ 2C_2H_5OH + 2Na \rightarrow 2C_2H_5ONa + H_2 \uparrow \] 3. The products are Sodium ethoxide and Hydrogen gas.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The gas evolved is Hydrogen (\(H_2\)).
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