A06 Side Reactions Initiated by the Reaction of Sodium and Chlorine

Description
First a deflagration spoon of sodium is heated and plunged into chlorine gas. A violent reaction takes place as soon as the spoon is shaken to expose unreacted sodium. The copper in the spoon also reacts forming a colored aerosol.

A porcelain crucible containing sodium is heated to initiate the reaction. A long violent reaction is observed but particulates of silicon are observed as products.

Equation
2 Na + Cl₂--> 2 NaCl

Cu + Cl₂ --> CuCl₂

Reference
H. N. Alyea and F. B. Dutton, Eds.,"Tested Demonstrations in Chemistry", 6th ed., Journal of Chemical Education, Easton, Pennsylvania (1965) p.212.