Sodium hydroxide
Molar mass: 40.00 g/mol · Class: Strong base
Elements: sodium, oxygen, hydrogen
Structure
Solid sodium hydroxide is an ionic lattice of Na+ and OH- ions. It dissolves very readily in water, releasing hydroxide ions completely, which makes the solution strongly basic.
Properties
Strong base: releases OH- completely in water
White solid that absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide from air
Dissolving in water releases significant heat
Feels slippery because it reacts with skin oils
Applications
Soap and detergent manufacture
Paper and pulp processing
Drain cleaners
pH adjustment and chemical synthesis
Corrosive: causes severe skin burns and eye damage, including blindness. The slippery feeling means it is already attacking skin: rinse immediately with plenty of water. Wear goggles and gloves; keep locked away from children.
Data source: IUPAC standard atomic weights 2021; molar mass computed from NaOH