This element is commonly used to reduce benzophenone to the diphenylketyl radical used in hydrocarbon purification, and either it or lithium, along with alcohol in ammonia, provides electrons necessary for a Birch reduction. The Solvay process produces soda ash, this element's carbonate salt, which is used in water softeners. First isolated by electrolysis of lye, which is this metal's hydroxide, 
This element is commonly used to reduce benzophenone to the diphenylketyl radical used in hydrocarbon purification, and either it or lithium, along with alcohol in ammonia, provides electrons necessary for a Birch reduction. The Solvay process produces soda ash, this element's carbonate salt, which is used in water softeners. First isolated by electrolysis of lye, which is this metal's hydroxide, this element burns yellow in a flame test, and baking soda is its bicarbonate. For 10 points, name this element whose chloride forms simple table salt and which is symbolized Na.
This element is commonly used to reduce benzophenone to the diphenylketyl radical used in hydrocarbon purification, and either it or lithium, along with alcohol in ammonia, provides electrons necessary for a Birch reduction.
sodium [or Na before mentioned]