RbH

Rubidium hydride (RbH) is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula RbH. It is an alkali metal hydride, belonging to the same class of compounds as sodium hydride (NaH) and potassium hydride (KH). Rubidium hydride is a crystalline solid and is highly reactive.

Rubidium hydride is typically prepared by the direct reaction of rubidium metal with hydrogen gas at elevated temperatures, often under pressure. The reaction is exothermic and requires careful control due to the high reactivity of rubidium. It can also be synthesized by reacting rubidium metal with other metal hydrides at high temperatures.

In terms of chemical properties, RbH exhibits characteristics typical of alkali metal hydrides. The hydride ion (H-) is a strong base and a powerful reducing agent. Rubidium hydride reacts vigorously with water, producing rubidium hydroxide (RbOH) and hydrogen gas. This reaction is highly exothermic and can be hazardous. It also reacts with acids and many other protic solvents.

Due to its extreme reactivity, particularly with moisture and air, RbH is not commonly used in laboratory or industrial settings. It is primarily of academic interest and is handled with extreme caution under inert atmospheres. Its properties are similar to other alkali metal hydrides, but its reactivity is generally higher due to the electropositive nature of rubidium.