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Properties
Sodium is represented by the symbol Na, for the Latin word natrium. It has a melting point of 97.72 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 883 degrees Celsius. Its atomic mass is 22.98977 amu, and each atom of sodium has 11 protons, 11 electrons and 12 neutrons. Its structure is cubic and it has a low density of .971 grams per cubic centimeter at 293 degrees Kelvin.
Facts
Sodium is a white or silvery metal with low density. It is very reactive -- sodium must be stored in a dry environment since it can spontaneously ignite when mixed with water. Sodium is not found on its own in nature, but rather combined with other elements, such as chloride to make common table salt. Sodium accounts for about 2-3 percent of the Earth's crust and is the fourth-most abundant element.
Uses
Sodium has many uses in medicine and agriculture. Many compounds made from sodium are found in soap, paper and glass. Some forms of sodium are used to purify molten metals, improving the structure of some alloys and descaling product to give it metallic shine. Sodium is used as a catalyst in street lamps to produce a bright yellow light. Liquid sodium can be used as a coolant for nuclear reactors.
Nutrition
Sodium is an important element in our diet. Humans use sodium to regulate blood pressure, and it is important for the functioning of nerves and muscles. Too much sodium in your diet can cause high blood pressure and can cause a buildup of fluid in people with cirrhosis of the liver or kidney disease. Many of the foods we eat have sodium in them naturally, such as table salt, milk, celery and beets.