The reactivity series - (CCEA)Reactions of metals with water

When a metal reacts with water, a metal hydroxide and hydrogen are formed.

For example:

Sodium reacts vigorously with water.

sodium + water ➞ sodium hydroxide + hydrogen

2Na(s) + 2H₂O(l) ➞ 2NaOH(aq) + H₂(g)

Calcium reacts readily with water.

calcium + water ➞ calcium hydroxide + hydrogen

Ca(s) + 2H₂O(l) ➞ Ca(OH)₂(aq) + H₂(g)

Calcium hydroxide is slightly soluble in water so once the solution is saturated, it starts to become milky as solid calcium hydroxide appear.

The apparatus below is used to react calcium with water and collect the gas. This would not be used with sodium or potassium as they float and the reaction is too vigorous.