Na2SO3, also known as Sodium Sulfite, is a crucial chemical compound. It consists of 2 sodium atoms (Na), 1 sulfur atom (S), and 3 oxygen atoms (O), with a molecular weight of 126.0452 g/mol. The molecule of Na2SO3 is structured as SO3^2- bonded with 2 sodium ions Na+.
In terms of physical properties, Na2SO3 is a solid, white crystalline substance, odorless, and has a neutral pH level. The chemical properties of Na2SO3 are evident in chemical reactions. It can react with metals, acids, non-metals, and salts.
When reacting with acids, Na2SO3 forms a salt and SO2 gas. For instance: Na2SO3 + 2HCl -> 2NaCl + SO2 + H2O. In its reaction with metals, Na2SO3 can form sulfate and sulfide salts. For example: 2Na2SO3 + O2 -> 2Na2SO4. When reacting with non-metals, Na2SO3 can form salts and water. For instance: Na2SO3 + Cl2 -> Na2SO4 + 2NaCl.
The synthesis of Na2SO3 can be done in the lab by reacting sodium with sulfur or sulfite. Industrially, Na2SO3 is manufactured by the reaction between sulfur dioxide (SO2) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in a water environment.