What is the general equation for ethanol reacting with sodium?

The reaction of ethanol with sodium is a straightforward example of an alkali metal reacting with an alcohol. When sodium (Na) reacts with ethanol (C2H5OH), it displaces hydrogen from the hydroxyl group (–OH), forming hydrogen gas (H2) and sodium ethoxide (C2H5ONa). This reaction is characterized by the release of bubbles, which is the hydrogen gas being produced.

The first part of the correct equation indicates that the ethanol molecule remains intact while sodium interacts with the hydroxyl group. The result is the formation of sodium ethoxide, which contains the alkoxide ion (C2H5O−) along with sodium. The production of hydrogen gas is a common feature when sodium interacts with substances containing hydrogen in a reactive context, such as alcohols.

The other choices suggest either different products or combinations that do not accurately reflect the chemical properties of ethanol or sodium. The key aspects leading to the correctness of the first choice lie in the formation of these products based on known reactions of alcohols with metals.