Hydroxide: Definition, Formula, Reactions And Examples!

Hydroxide; Definition, Formula, Reactions And Examples: Hydroxide is a negatively charged ion consisting of one oxygen and one hydrogen atom bound together by a covalent bond. 

It is widely used as a food preservative, for the alkalization of urine to prevent kidney stones, and as an anticoagulant for stored blood and buffer. 

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of Hydroxide: 

• Structure: The hydroxide ion has a single covalent bond between oxygen and hydrogen, with the oxygen atoms holding the extra electron giving it a negative charge. 
• Behaviour: Hydroxide ions act as bases in chemical reactions. They accept protons from acids forming water molecules. 
• Importance: Hydroxide ions are fundamental to understanding acid-base chemistry. 

Reactions That Involve Hydroxide Ions

Hydroxide ions are versatile participants in many chemical reactions. Have a look at some of the key reactions involving the hydroxide. 

• Neutralisation Reactions: 

This is the classic acid-base reaction. Here’s a general reaction 

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) + Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) -> Sodium chloride (NaCl) + Water (H2O)

•  Hydrolysis Reactions:

Certain salts react with water to produce hydroxide ions and other iconic species. 

Sodium acetate (NaC2H3O2) + Water (H2O) -> Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) + Acetic acid (HC2H3O2)

• Precipitation Reactions:

When soluble ionic compounds containing metal cations react with hydroxide ions, they can form insoluble precipitates. 

Silver nitrate (AgNO3) + Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) -> Silver oxide (Ag2O)↓ + Sodium nitrate (NaNO3)

• Nucleophilic Substitution Reactions:

Hydroxide ions, due to their electron-rich nature, can act as nucleophiles in reactions with organic molecules. 

• Amphoteric Hydroxide Reactions:

Some metal hydroxides can react with both acids and bases. 

Aluminium hydroxide (Al(OH)3) + Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) -> Sodium aluminate (NaAlO2) + Water (H2O)

Structure Of Hydroxide 

Uses Of Hydroxide

• It can be used to produce fuel cells.
• They can be used in processing paper pulp and treating textiles. 
• It is a key ingredient in the setting of the cement. 
• Used in the extraction of alumina. 
• It can also help purify the water by removing impurities and adjusting pH. 

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