Cs2O

Cs2O, or cesium oxide, is the chemical compound formed from cesium and oxide. It is a white, crystalline solid that is highly reactive and readily reacts with water and carbon dioxide in air to form cesium hydroxide and cesium carbonate, respectively. It is an alkali metal oxide and one of the heavier members of its group.

Structure and properties: In the solid, cesium oxide forms an ionic lattice consisting of Cs+ and O2- ions. The compound is highly basic, has a high melting point, and is insoluble in most organic solvents. It dissolves in water with a vigorous exothermic reaction to yield cesium hydroxide (CsOH).

Production and occurrence: Cs2O is produced by burning cesium metal in oxygen: 4 Cs + O2 → 2 Cs2O. It can also be formed by heating cesium carbonate to decompose it: Cs2CO3 → Cs2O + CO2. It is not typically found as a natural mineral and is prepared industrially from cesium compounds.

Reactions and uses: It reacts with water to form cesium hydroxide: Cs2O + H2O → 2 CsOH, and it reacts with carbon dioxide to yield cesium carbonate: Cs2O + CO2 → Cs2CO3. In the laboratory, Cs2O serves as a precursor to CsOH and other cesium salts and is used as a flux in glass and ceramic production due to its basic character. Handling requires dry, inert conditions since contact with moisture or air causes rapid hydrolysis and heat release, and containers are sealed and protected from moisture.

Safety: Cs2O is caustic and reacts violently with water, posing burn hazards to skin and eyes. Proper personal protective equipment and dry handling are essential.