2Mg + 2NaOH -> 2MgO + 2Na + H2?

[Rob]

2Mg + 2NaOH -> 2MgO + 2Na + H2

 

Aqueous solution of NaOH or something else?

[UC]

2Mg + 2NaOH -> 2MgO + 2Na + H2

 

Aqueous solution of NaOH or something else?

 

not at all, especially in aqueous solution.

look up reactivity series.

 

I dont think sodium can be distilled out of the mix of molten NaOH and Mg too easily or you could cheat with Le Chatlier's principle and a lot of heat.

[Theophrastus]

Agreed, all it does, is induce the corrosion of the magnesium metal, and release hydrogen gas, in the process.

[UC]

Agreed, all it does, is induce the corrosion of the magnesium metal, and release hydrogen gas, in the process.

 

Actually, I think the corrosion of the magnesium would be hindered by formation of a hydroxide skin. Unlike aluminum hydroxide/oxide, which you are probably thinking of, magnesium hydroxide is not amphoteric.

[hermanntrude]

Oh god, not another "I think I know how to make sodium" thread.

 

I'd like to make and sticky a thread called "you cant make sodium"