It is obtained commercially by the electrolysis of dry fused sodium chloride. Uses Metallic sodium is used in the manufacture of sodamide and esters, and in the preparation of certain organic compounds. Other uses of the metal include descaling and purifying metals, and alloy formation. One alloy of sodium with potassium is an important heat transfer agent. Sodium compounds are important in several industries, including paper, glass, soap, textile, petroleum and metal.
Salt is also of vital nutritional importance.
Biological Role Sodium is essential to all animals, and this has been recognised since prehistoric times. Although it is considered non-toxic, too much salt in the diet has been linked to high blood pressure under certain circumstances. General Information Sodium is very reactive, and should be handled with care. It floats on water, decomposing it with the evolution of hydrogen and the formation of sodium hydroxide. It may or may not ignite spontaneously on the water, depending on the amount of metal exposed to the water.