Hydroxide facts for kids
Hydroxide is a special chemical group made of one oxygen atom and one hydrogen atom. It carries a negative electrical charge, so it's called an ion. You can write it as OH−.
Many chemical substances that contain hydroxide are known as bases. When a base dissolves in water, it releases these hydroxide ions. This is why hydroxide ions are very important in acid-base reactions, where acids and bases mix.
Hydroxide is used in many important ways. For example, sodium hydroxide is a strong base used in factories. Potassium hydroxide helps in agriculture. Also, minerals like goethite and limonite, which contain iron hydroxide, have been used to get iron. The rock bauxite, which is used to make aluminium, is mostly made of aluminium hydroxides.
Most hydroxide salts that are not organic do not dissolve well in water.
What are Hydroxides Used For?
Hydroxides are super useful in many different areas.
- Sodium hydroxide is a very strong base. Factories use it for many things, like making soap or cleaning drains.
- Potassium hydroxide is often used in agriculture. It helps plants grow and can be found in some fertilizers.
- Iron hydroxides are found in nature as minerals. People have used them as a source of iron, though they are considered a lower quality iron ore.
Common Hydroxides
Here are some common examples of hydroxides:
- Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) – A strong base used in many industries.
- Potassium hydroxide (KOH) – Used in farming and some cleaning products.
- Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) – Also known as slaked lime, used in construction and water treatment.
- Ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH) – Found in household cleaners.
Images for kids
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Schematic representation of the bihydroxide ion
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How beryllium reacts with water at different pH levels. Water molecules attached to Be are not shown.
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How aluminium reacts with water at different pH levels. Water molecules attached to Al are not shown.
See also
In Spanish: Hidróxido para niños
