Normally elements join together to make bigger particles called molecules.
I often work with organolithium reagents which set fire in air because they react with oxygen. I have to handle them under argon gas so they don’t set fire!
There are cases where things go wrong, but we have very strict health and safety to avoid this. Before I do anything in the laboratory I have to fill in a form to list all the dangers involved and what I would do if something goes wrong. When I am working I wear a lab coat, lab glasses and gloves.
I have had one small explosion but I had planned what to do if anything went wrong and was able to sort it out quickly and safely!
It depends what you’re trying to react it with! But I think the most universally reactive one I use regularly would be sodium.
And yes! Stuff goes wrong on a fairly regular basis but I think the worst which has ever happened was when the lid of my vessel cracked in half due to unexpected pressure building up!
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