Na3N

Sodium nitride, with the chemical formula Na3N, is an inorganic compound. It is a salt-like compound where sodium is in the +1 oxidation state and the nitride ion is in the -3 oxidation state. This compound is notable for being a source of the nitride anion in reactions. Sodium nitride is typically prepared through the reaction of sodium metal with ammonia or other nitrogen sources under specific conditions. It is a highly reactive substance and readily reacts with water and air, decomposing to form sodium hydroxide and ammonia. Due to its instability and reactivity, it is not commonly encountered in everyday applications and is primarily of interest in specialized chemical research. The structure of sodium nitride is related to that of antifluorite, with sodium cations occupying the positions normally occupied by fluorine atoms. Care must be taken when handling sodium nitride due to its potential hazards.