Rubidium

Reaction of rubidium with acids

Rubidium does not react with acids, under normal conditions, but reacts with the water instead.

Reaction of rubidium with air

Rubidium reacts slowly with oxygen, O₂, tarnishing the surface, under normal conditions. If heated, rubidium is oxidized to rubidium superoxide, RbO₂:

Rb(s) + O₂(g)

RbO₂(s) [dark brown]

Reaction of rubidium with bases

Rubidium does not react with bases, under normal conditions, but reacts with the water instead.

Reaction of rubidium with halogens

Rubidium reacts vigorously with the halogens, forming the corresponding rubidium halides.

2 Rb(s) + F₂(g)

RbF(s)
2 Rb(s) + Cl₂(g)

RbCl(s)
2 Rb(s) + Br₂(g)

RbBr(s)
2 Rb(s) + I₂(g)

RbI(s)

Reaction of rubidium with hydrogen

Rubidium reacts with hydrogen, forming rubidium hydride [5].

2 Rb(s) + H₂(g)

2 RbH(s)

Reaction of rubidium with water

Rubidium reacts violently with water, forming rubidium hydroxide, RbOH, and hydrogen gas, H₂:

2 Rb(s) + H₂O(l)

2 RbOH(aq) + H₂(g)