When `H_(2)` reacts with Na, it acts as

Options

A. Oxidising agent
B. Peducing agent
C. Both
D. None

Answer

To determine how hydrogen gas (H₂) behaves when it reacts with sodium (Na), we can analyze the reaction step by step.

### Step 1: Write the Reaction
When hydrogen gas reacts with sodium, the reaction can be represented as:
\[ 2 \text{Na} + \text{H}_2 \rightarrow 2 \text{NaOH} \]

### Step 2: Identify the Oxidation States
Next, we need to identify the oxidation states of sodium (Na) and hydrogen (H) before and after the reaction.

- In elemental form, the oxidation state of sodium (Na) is 0.
- In hydrogen gas (H₂), the oxidation state of hydrogen is also 0.

### Step 3: Determine the Oxidation State in Products
Now, let's find the oxidation state of sodium in sodium hydroxide (NaOH):
- Sodium (Na) in NaOH has an oxidation state of +1.
- Oxygen (O) has an oxidation state of -2.
- Hydrogen (H) in NaOH has an oxidation state of +1.

### Step 4: Calculate the Change in Oxidation State
- Sodium changes from an oxidation state of 0 (in Na) to +1 (in NaOH).
- Therefore, sodium is oxidized.

### Step 5: Determine the Role of Hydrogen
Since sodium is oxidized, we need to determine the role of hydrogen in this reaction. In this case:
- Hydrogen (H₂) is acting as an oxidizing agent because it causes sodium to lose electrons (oxidation).

### Final Conclusion
Thus, when H₂ reacts with Na, it acts as an oxidizing agent.