3. How Does Sodium Peroxide React With Water Or Other Chemicals?

Sodium peroxide (Na2O2) is a strong oxidizing agent and reacts violently with water, producing sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The reaction can be represented by the following equation:

Na2O2 + 2H2O → 2NaOH + H2O2

The reaction of sodium peroxide with acids liberates oxygen gas and forms the corresponding salt. For example, when sodium peroxide reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), sodium chloride (NaCl) and oxygen gas (O2) are produced:

2Na2O2 + 4HCl → 4NaCl + O2 + 2H2O

Sodium peroxide also reacts with carbon dioxide (CO2) to form sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) and oxygen gas:

2Na2O2 + 2CO2 → 2Na2CO3 + O2

It should be noted that all reactions involving sodium peroxide must be carried out carefully and under controlled conditions due to its highly reactive nature and potential for violent reactions. Proper protective equipment and training are necessary when handling this compound.