On reaction with water, active metal produces

Key Points

• When active metals react with water, they produce a base.
• This reaction typically releases hydrogen gas and forms a metal hydroxide, which is basic in nature.
• For example, when sodium (an active metal) reacts with water, it produces sodium hydroxide (a base) and hydrogen gas.
• The general reaction can be represented as:
  Metal + Water → Metal Hydroxide + Hydrogen Gas

Additional Information

• Active metals are those that readily react with water due to their high reactivity, such as alkali metals (e.g., sodium, potassium).
• The reaction is highly exothermic and can be vigorous, especially with more reactive metals like potassium.
• Care must be taken while handling these reactions due to the release of hydrogen gas, which is flammable.
• In contrast, less reactive metals like iron may react slowly with water or only react with steam.