Hydroxide

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

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

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

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.

See also

• Acid
• Base
• pH
• Alkali
• Nucleophile
• Catalyst

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