Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye or caustic soda, is a highly caustic metallic base and alkali salt. It is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NaOH. It is a white solid, and is highly soluble in water, making it a strong alkali. Sodium hydroxide is used in many industries, including the manufacturing of paper, textiles, soaps, detergents, and as a drain cleaner.

Chemical Properties

• Chemical Formula: NaOH
• Molar Mass: 39.997 g/mol
• Appearance: White, solid flakes, pellets, or beads
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water
• pH: Highly alkaline (pH of a 0.1 M solution is around 13)

Uses

Sodium hydroxide has numerous industrial and laboratory uses, including:

1. Manufacturing of paper and pulp
2. Textile processing
3. Soap and detergent production
4. Food processing (e.g., peeling fruits and vegetables)
5. Neutralization of acids
6. As a cleaning agent and drain cleaner

Health and Safety

It's important to handle sodium hydroxide with care due to its corrosive nature. Direct contact with skin or eyes can cause severe burns. When working with sodium hydroxide, it's essential to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat. In case of contact, it's crucial to rinse the affected area with plenty of water and seek medical attention if necessary.

Study Guide

When studying sodium hydroxide, it's important to understand its chemical properties, uses, and safety precautions. Here are some key points to focus on:

1. Understand the chemical formula and molar mass of sodium hydroxide.
2. Learn about its appearance and solubility in water.
3. Explore the various industrial and laboratory uses of sodium hydroxide.
4. Understand the pH of sodium hydroxide and its alkaline nature.
5. Review the health and safety precautions associated with handling sodium hydroxide.

By mastering these key points, you'll have a solid understanding of sodium hydroxide and its significance in various applications.