Sodium is a very reactive metal. It reacts quickly and dangerously with air and water.
Reaction with water: When sodium comes in contact with water, it reacts violently. This reaction produces sodium hydroxide (NaOH), hydrogen gas (H₂), and a lot of heat. The heat can ignite the hydrogen gas, which may cause fire.
Chemical equation:
2Na + 2H₂O → 2NaOH + H₂ (gas) + heat
Reaction with air: Sodium also reacts with oxygen in the air and forms sodium oxide (Na₂O), which appears as a white layer on the metal.
Chemical equation:
4Na + O₂ → 2Na₂O
To prevent these dangerous reactions, sodium is stored in kerosene oil.
Kerosene does not react with sodium and protects it by blocking contact with air and water.
Conclusion:
Sodium is kept in kerosene oil to prevent it from reacting with air and water, which can be explosive or harmful.