Hydroxide: Difference between revisions
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File:Beryllium_trimer.svg|Hydroxide | |||
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File:Tetrahydroxoaluminate_ion.svg|Hydroxide | |||
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File:Sulfuric-acid-2D-dimensions.svg|Hydroxide | |||
File:Telluric_acid.svg|Hydroxide | |||
File:Ortho-Periodsäure.svg|Hydroxide | |||
File:Xenic_acid.png|Hydroxide | |||
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Latest revision as of 11:55, 18 February 2025
Hydroxide is a diatomic anion with chemical formula OH−. It consists of an oxygen and hydrogen atom held together by a covalent bond, and carries a negative electric charge. It is an important but usually minor constituent of water. It functions as a base, a ligand, a nucleophile, and a catalyst. The hydroxide ion forms salts, some of which dissociate in aqueous solution, liberating solvated hydroxide ions.
Chemical properties[edit]
Hydroxide is a compound of an oxygen and hydrogen atom. It is a base, meaning it can accept protons (H+). Hydroxide can also act as a ligand, binding to a central atom in a molecule to form a complex. As a nucleophile, hydroxide can donate an electron pair to an electrophile. In addition, hydroxide can act as a catalyst, speeding up a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.
Salts of hydroxide[edit]
Salts of hydroxide, known as alkalis, are formed when a metal donates an electron to the hydroxide ion. Some of these salts can dissociate in water, releasing solvated hydroxide ions. This process is known as hydrolysis.
Role in water[edit]
In water, hydroxide is a minor constituent, but it plays an important role in the pH of the water. The concentration of hydroxide ions in water is equal to 10−pH, so the pH of water can be calculated from the concentration of hydroxide ions.
