Sodium hydrogen should be stored in properly closed containers because it?
Answer Details
Sodium hydrogen, also known as sodium hydride, is a highly reactive substance that readily reacts with water to produce hydrogen gas. Therefore, it should be stored in properly closed containers to prevent it from coming into contact with moisture and air, which could lead to dangerous reactions.
When sodium hydrogen is exposed to air, it readily absorbs water vapor from the air, which can cause it to react violently, producing hydrogen gas and heat. This reaction can be explosive if the concentration of hydrogen gas becomes too high.
Therefore, the correct option is "readily absorbs water vapor from the air." Sodium hydrogen should be stored in an airtight container with a desiccant to absorb any moisture that may be present. This helps to prevent the absorption of water vapor from the air, which could lead to dangerous reactions.