Which of the following metals is used for drying organic solvents ?

Options

A. Magnesium
B. Sodium
C. Platinum
D. Nickel

Answer

To determine which metal is used for drying organic solvents, we need to consider the properties of the metals listed and their interactions with water. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand the Purpose of Drying Organic Solvents
To dry organic solvents, we need to remove any moisture or water present in them. This can be achieved by using a substance that can either absorb water or react with it to form a different compound.

**Hint:** Look for metals that have strong reactions with water.

### Step 2: Analyze the Metals Given
The metals provided in the question are magnesium, sodium, platinum, and nickel. We need to evaluate their reactivity with water.

- **Magnesium:** Reacts with water, but the reaction is not vigorous at room temperature.
- **Sodium:** Reacts vigorously with water, producing sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
- **Platinum:** Does not react with water; it is inert.
- **Nickel:** Has limited reactivity with water and is not used for drying.

**Hint:** Focus on the metal that has a vigorous reaction with water.

### Step 3: Identify the Most Suitable Metal
Among the metals analyzed, sodium stands out due to its vigorous reaction with water. When sodium comes into contact with water, it reacts to form sodium hydroxide and releases hydrogen gas. This reaction effectively removes water from organic solvents.

**Hint:** Consider the metal that can effectively remove water through a chemical reaction.

### Step 4: Conclusion
Based on the analysis, sodium is the metal that is used for drying organic solvents due to its ability to react vigorously with water, thus acting as a dehydrating agent.

**Final Answer:** Sodium is the metal used for drying organic solvents.