Question

sodium and phosphorus are both reactive but their storage methods are different. why?

Answer 1

A designated storage place for each compound.Each stock container of a chemical compound should be returned to that location after each use. Storage locations can be marked on containers.Not on the bench top.Do not store stock supplies of chemicals on benchtops where they are unprotected from ignition sources and more easily knocked over. Only chemicals in use should be benchtops.Not in the fumehood Do not keep stock supplies of chemicals in fumehoods they may, interfere with air flow in the hood, may provide fuel if there is a fire.Not in alphabetical order except within "Chemical Storage Groups"Do not store chemicals in alphabetical order except within "Chemical Storage Groups". Alphabetical arrangement of randomly collected chemicals often increases the likelihood of dangerous reactions by bringing incompatible materials into close proximity. Away from sun and heatStorage areas should not be exposed to extremes of heat or sunlight. Not under the sinkDo not store any chemicals except bleach and compatible cleaning agents under the sink.Label chemicals properlyAll containers within the lab must be labeled. Suspect and known carcinogens must be labeled as such and segregated within trays to contain leaks and spills.Safeguard against theftThis plan does not require security measures (i.e., locked cabinets) to prevent theft, but lab workers should make sure that lab doors are locked when unattended. Use of chemicals regulated by Drug Enforcement Agency may require registration and secured controlled storage.Liquid chemicalsStorage of liquid chemicals is more hazardous than storage of solids and is subject to numerous and varied storage requirements.