Which statement describes a practical storage precaution for highly reactive metals?

Which statement describes a practical storage precaution for highly reactive metals?

• A. Store under mineral oil.
• B. Store in air.
• C. Store in water.
• D. Keep in a sealed paper package.

Answer: (A)

Highly reactive metals are eager to react with air and especially with water. The safest storage method is to separate them from both air and moisture, and mineral oil provides a perfect barrier. Submerging or covering the metal in mineral oil keeps oxygen and moisture from reaching the metal surface, preventing oxidation and violent hydrolysis reactions. Storing in air would allow rapid oxidation to occur, turning the metal dull or dullish and forming oxide layers. Submerging in water would trigger a vigorous reaction that can release heat, hydrogen gas, and even flames. A sealed paper package isn’t reliable because paper can absorb moisture, degrade, or fail to keep the metal completely isolated from air and humidity. So, the mineral oil option best protects the metal by creating a dry, inert environment.

Highly reactive metals are eager to react with air and especially with water. The safest storage method is to separate them from both air and moisture, and mineral oil provides a perfect barrier. Submerging or covering the metal in mineral oil keeps oxygen and moisture from reaching the metal surface, preventing oxidation and violent hydrolysis reactions.

Storing in air would allow rapid oxidation to occur, turning the metal dull or dullish and forming oxide layers. Submerging in water would trigger a vigorous reaction that can release heat, hydrogen gas, and even flames. A sealed paper package isn’t reliable because paper can absorb moisture, degrade, or fail to keep the metal completely isolated from air and humidity.

So, the mineral oil option best protects the metal by creating a dry, inert environment.