[2] Sodium dichromate is generated on a large scale from ores containing chromium(III) oxides.

The ore is fused with a base, typically sodium carbonate, at around 1000 °C in the presence of air (source of oxygen): This step solubilizes the chromium and allows it to be extracted into hot water.

In the area of organic synthesis,[2] this compound oxidizes benzylic and allylic C-H bonds to carbonyl derivatives.

[4] Secondary alcohols are oxidized to the corresponding ketone, e.g. menthol to menthone;[5] dihydrocholesterol to cholestanone:[6] Relative to the potassium salt, the main advantage of sodium dichromate is its greater solubility in water and polar solvents like acetic acid.

[8] Human exposure further encompasses impaired fertility, heritable genetic damage and harm to unborn children.