Natriumalkoksidi

Natriumalkoksidi is the sodium salt of an alcohol. It has the general formula RO⁻Na⁺, where R represents an alkyl group and O⁻ is the alkoxide anion. These compounds are typically strong bases and are often prepared by reacting an alcohol with sodium metal or sodium hydride. The reactivity of natriumalkoksidi depends on the nature of the R group. Shorter alkyl chains generally lead to stronger bases. Natriumalkoksidi are highly soluble in their corresponding alcohol and can react with water, which is why they are often handled under anhydrous conditions. Their primary application is in organic synthesis as strong bases, particularly in reactions like deprotonation, alkylation, and condensation. For instance, sodium methoxide (CH₃O⁻Na⁺) and sodium ethoxide (CH₃CH₂O⁻Na⁺) are commonly used reagents. They can also act as nucleophiles in certain reactions. Due to their basicity and reactivity with moisture, care must be taken during handling and storage.