Although sodium nitrate is the result of chemical reaction of sodium, both of which are different substances which are used for different purposes.
Physical Properties
Sodium is a silvery metal when not exposed to oxygen. Sodium is soft so it can be cut with a knife.
Sodium has a melting point and a high boiling point and has a smaller density than water.
Moderate sodium nitrate crystals at room temperature. This compound has a melting point and boiling point much higher than sodium.
Sodium nitrate is more dense than water and easily soluble in water and other liquids.
Reactions with Air and Oxygen
Sodium is very reactive with oxygen. If left exposed to oxygen, sodium oxide reacts to form sodium.
When exposed to water, the sodium will react and release hydrogen gas which is accompanied by the formation of sodium hydroxide.
When sodium nitrate reacts with water, nitrate ions will separate themselves from the compound. Unlike sodium, sodium nitrate is not readily react with oxygen.
usefulness
Sodium nitrate is used to make nitric acid by reaction with sulfuric acid.
Sodium nitrate is also used in conjunction with potassium to make explosives, fertilizers, and food preservatives.
Sodium is being used by various industries to remove impurities.
Sodium metal is also used in industry to make color more shiny metal. Another use is to reduce the sodium organic molecules.
Sodium reacts with carbon to form sodium carbonate is used in glass and paper industry. This substance is also commonly used to remove water hardness.
Health Hazards
Consumption of large amounts of sodium can lead to high blood pressure. High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure.
Sodium nitrate is generally considered safe and does not cause high blood pressure.