Alkali and alkaline earth metals have low ionisation enthalpies and hence exhibit characteristic flame colouration. They have high negative electrode potentials and hence are strong reducing agents. They dissolve in liquid ammonia to give a solution which conducts electricity and act as strong reducing agent. being stronger reducing agent than hydrogen, they are usually prepared by the electrolysis of their fused chlorides. Their oxides are basic and the basic strength increases down the group. The solubility of carbonates and sulphates of alkali and alkaline earth metals show opposite trends. only the carbonates of `Li` and alkaline earth metals decompose on heating. The bicarbonates of both alkali and alkaline earth metals on heating give carbonates.
Which of the following process is used in the extractive metallurgy of sodium?
A. Electrolysis of aqueous solution
B. Thermite rediction
C. Electrolysis of fused salt
D. Self-reduction
