In this piece, we will be exploring the formula of Sodium Nitride, an inorganic compound known for its remarkable instability. This alkali metal nitride is produced by merging atomic beams of nitrogen and sodium onto a cool sapphire substrate. Due to its characteristics, it can easily break down into its original elements. The chemical formula of Sodium Nitride is Na 3 N.
Sodium Nitride is primarily ionic, accounting for about 90% of its composition at room temperature. It possesses a bandgap which is typical for a semiconductor. It has an anti-ReO structure, consisting of a basic lattice made from NNa octahedra. The length of the N-Na bond is 236.6 pm, as determined by X-ray diffraction. Depending on the synthesis process, the compound may appear anywhere from reddish-brown to dark blue. Interestingly, it does not have a defined melting point.