2007-01-12 23:42:49 · 6 answers · asked by aarshiya 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
All alkali metals (Lithium and those below it in the periodic table) are highly reactive, even with trace amounts of water in the atmosphere. Caesium is one of the heavier alkali metals and is also one of the most reactive. It causes an explosive reaction when it comes in contact with water or water vapor. This is due to the heat and Hydrogen produced.
2 Cs + 2 H2O --> 2 CsOH + H2
Caesium needs to be stored in airtight containers, but never in the damp. (see site 1)
Spontaneous combustion of both animal manure and oily rags have started many fires, some very costly, like the recent 200 acre fire in Chino, CA. (see site 2). Light had nothing to due with this.
Some mixtures, like Hydrogen gas and Chlorine gas, must be stored in the dark. Light will initiate the following explosive reaction:
H2 + Cl2 -- 2 HCl
(see site 3)
2007-01-13 01:24:18 · answer #1 · answered by Richard 7 · 11⤊ 0⤋
Phosphorus
2007-01-13 11:01:28 · answer #2 · answered by CLICKHEREx 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Vampires!
2007-01-13 07:52:12 · answer #3 · answered by gebobs 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Caesium.
2007-01-13 07:52:07 · answer #4 · answered by ag_iitkgp 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
iodine, that's why it must be kept in an amber bottles
2007-01-13 08:12:55 · answer #5 · answered by mn3mosyne 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it's phosphorous.
to be more precise white phosphorous.
2007-01-13 09:50:32 · answer #6 · answered by girish k 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋