Sodium Sulfide (Anhydrous)

Sodium sulfide (anhydrous) is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na2S. It is a colorless to yellowish solid that is highly soluble in water, but insoluble in organic solvents.

The compound can be prepared by reacting sodium with sulfur at high temperatures or by treating sodium hydroxide with hydrogen sulfide gas. Sodium sulfide is commonly used in a variety of industrial applications, including paper production, leather processing, and as a reducing agent in chemical reactions.

It is important to handle sodium sulfide with care as it is corrosive and can cause severe skin and eye irritation. When handling, protective clothing, gloves, and goggles should be worn. Additionally, sodium sulfide should be stored in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances such as acids and oxidizers.

In aqueous solutions, sodium sulfide undergoes hydrolysis to produce hydrogen sulfide gas and sodium hydroxide. This reaction results in the characteristic odor of rotten eggs associated with the compound.

Overall, sodium sulfide plays an important role in various industrial processes and must be handled with care due to its corrosiveness and potential health hazards.