Sodium in Water Explosion

A large chunk of sodium metal is added to a plastic bowl of water, it catches fire the explodes.

1. Fill a large plastic bowl three-quarters full with water.
2. Have any observers stand back at least 10 meters.
3. Optionally add a few drops of phenolphthalein to make the water go pink when the sodium is added. Be sure to explain why, as many students end up thinking that sodium makes the water pink.
4. Pick up a large chunk (1 x 2 x 2cm) of sodium with tongs and place it in the water, walking quickly away as soon as it's dropped in.
5. The sodium will bubble for some time, then catch fire and explode.

Sodium in water explosion -Chemical Reaction - MooMooMath and Science:

1000g Of Sodium Metal vs Water - Elias Experiments:

• Watch videos on the reaction of other alkali metals and water (do not attempt these).

• Don't let sodium touch hands, use tongs to handle it.
• Check school rules, many schools or districts don't allow this experiment or limit to a very small piece of sodium.
• Never allow students to handle sodium.
• Wear a lab coat, safety glasses and face shield.
• Put a safety screen between the experiment and any onlookers. Onlookers should stand at least 10m away.
• Never use a glass container as the explosion is likely to break it.
• Walk briskly but don't run from the experiment to minimize the chance of tripping.
• If the experiment does not explode, wait several minutes before approaching.
• Don't put sodium into a waterway as it forms sodium hydroxide which is a strong base and could affect the environment.
• Have a hose or water bucket to wash any small pieces of sodium thrown in the explosion.

• Why is sodium stored in oil?
• Why does the water go pink if phenolphthalein has been added?