When sodium amalgam is treated with water, sodium hydroxide is formed. This reaction can be represented by the following equation:

2Na(Hg) + 2H2O → 2NaOH + H2 + 2Hg

Here is a detailed explanation of the reaction:

1. Introduction:
- Sodium amalgam is an alloy of sodium with mercury. It is commonly used as a reducing agent in organic chemistry.
- Water is a polar molecule with an oxygen atom that has a partial negative charge and two hydrogen atoms with partial positive charges.

2. Reaction:
- When sodium amalgam is added to water, the sodium atoms in the amalgam react with water molecules.
- The reaction is highly exothermic, meaning it releases a significant amount of heat.
- The reaction is also highly vigorous, often resulting in the rapid formation of hydrogen gas and the liberation of mercury.
- The sodium atoms in the amalgam lose electrons and are oxidized to form sodium ions (Na+).
- The water molecules act as a source of hydroxide ions (OH-).
- The sodium ions and hydroxide ions combine to form sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which is a strong base.

3. Products:
- Sodium hydroxide (NaOH): This is a white solid that is highly soluble in water. It is commonly known as caustic soda and is used in various industrial applications, such as in the production of paper, textiles, and soaps.
- Hydrogen gas (H2): This is a colorless, odorless gas that is released during the reaction. It is highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air.
- Mercury (Hg): This is a dense, silvery metal that is released from the amalgam during the reaction. It is toxic and should be handled with caution.

4. Conclusion:
- When sodium amalgam is treated with water, sodium hydroxide, hydrogen gas, and mercury are formed.
- The main product of the reaction is sodium hydroxide, which is a strong base commonly used in various industries.