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Sodium hydroxide, commonly known as caustic soda or lye, is a highly versatile and widely used chemical compound. It is an inorganic alkali with a range of industrial, commercial, and domestic applications.
In modern times, Sodium Hydroxide, a very corrosive chemical, is used to manufacture:
Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a strong, corrosive base that is composed of sodium (Na+), hydrogen (H+), and hydroxide (OH-) ions. It is typically available in solid form as white, deliquescent flakes or pellets. Sodium hydroxide is highly soluble in water, generating an exothermic reaction. This alkaline compound has a wide pH range and is known for its caustic and reactive nature.
Sodium Hydroxide itself is a white solid when stored at room temperature and has a waxy consistency.
When produced, it is usually as pellets or flakes. Because is it hygroscopic (meaning it absorbs water and carbon dioxide from the air), it needs to be stored in airtight containers.
Its hygroscopic nature also means that when it is dissolved intentionally in water it dissolves very easily but does give off a fair amount of heat as it dissolves.
Sodium hydroxide, a powerful alkali with a broad range of applications, finds its utility in numerous industries. Its versatile nature allows it to contribute to chemical manufacturing, water treatment, soap and detergent production, food processing, and pharmaceutical formulations. As with any strong chemical, appropriate safety measures and precautions should be followed while handling sodium hydroxide to ensure safe and efficient use.
Most sodium hydroxide is produced by electrolysing sodium chloride solution, giving off chlorine and hydrogen and leaving sodium hydroxide in solution. The world consumes 50 to 60 million tonnes of the compound every year.
