What is formed when zinc reacts with sodium hydroxide?

CONCEPT:

Reaction of Zinc with Sodium Hydroxide

• Zinc reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in the presence of water to form sodium zincate and hydrogen gas.
• This reaction occurs because zinc is amphoteric, meaning it can react with both acids and bases.

EXPLANATION

• When zinc reacts with sodium hydroxide, the chemical equation is:

  Zn(s) + 2NaOH(aq) → Na₂ZnO₂(aq) + H₂(g)

• Zinc (Zn) reacts with the base sodium hydroxide (NaOH).
• Sodium zincate (Na₂ZnO₂) is formed as the product.
• Hydrogen gas (H₂) is evolved during the reaction.
• The reaction is an example of a metal reacting with a base to form a salt and hydrogen gas.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Sodium zincate and hydrogen gas.