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Nickel(II) hydroxide facts for kids

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DSC01973 - Nickel (II) reactions
The middle tube has nickel(II) hydroxide in it

Nickel(II) hydroxide, also called nickelous hydroxide, is a special chemical compound. Think of it as a tiny building block made of different atoms. Its chemical formula is Ni(OH)2. This means it has one nickel atom, two oxygen atoms, and two hydrogen atoms joined together. The nickel in this compound has a specific "charge" or oxidation state of +2. It also contains groups of atoms called hydroxide ions, which are made of oxygen and hydrogen.

What are the Properties of Nickel(II) Hydroxide?

Nickel(II) hydroxide is a light green solid. It looks a bit like a fine powder. One important thing about it is that it does not dissolve in water. This means if you put it in water, it won't disappear like sugar or salt does. However, it can dissolve in acids. When it dissolves in acids, it creates other types of nickel(II) salts.

How is Nickel(II) Hydroxide Made?

Scientists can make nickel(II) hydroxide in a lab. They do this by mixing a base with a nickel(II) salt. A base is a type of chemical that contains hydroxide ions. A common nickel(II) salt used for this reaction is nickel(II) chloride. When these two chemicals react, they form nickel(II) hydroxide.

What is Nickel(II) Hydroxide Used For?

Nickel(II) hydroxide is very important in making certain types of batteries. It is a key material used inside the nickel cadmium battery. It's also used in the nickel-metal hydride battery. These batteries are found in many things we use every day, like cordless power tools, hybrid cars, and some electronic devices.

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