Sodium amide

Olive green or white crystalline powder with an ammonia-like odor. It readily absorbs moisture andcarbon dioxide when exposed to air. It begins to volatilize at 400°C and decomposes into elemental substances at 500–600°C. It reacts violently with water, producing sodium hydroxide and ammonia. It reacts more slowly with ethanol. Melting point: 208°C. Boiling point: 400°C. Heat of formation: -118.8 kJ/mol. Flammable. If the color turns yellow, it has transformed into an azide and should not be used further to prevent explosion. It is corrosive and hygroscopic. It oxidizes easily in air.