The metal M reacts vigorously with water to form a solution and a gas G. The solution turns red litmus to blue whereas gas G, which is lighter than air, burns with a pop sound. Metal M has a low melting point and it is used as a coolant in nuclear reactors.
(a) What is metal M?
(b) What is solution *? Is it acidic or alkaline ?
(c) What is gas G?
(d) Write a balanced chemical equation for the reaction which takes place when metal M reacts with water.
(e) Is this reaction exothermic or endothermic?