In the field of chemistry, a hydroxide is a chemical compound, formed by a metal and various hydroxyl anions, instead of oxygen, as occurs with various metals, such as nitrogen and sodium, since they are similar in their forms. It is characterized by its Hydroxyl functional group (OH-1). Hydroxides are also known as "base" or "alkali."
The basic formula of hydroxides is of the X (OH) n type, where the number of ions is equal to the oxidation number of the metal cation, in such a way that the total sum of the charges is equal to zero. The general formula of hydroxides is: basic oxide + water = hydroxide, its symbol being OH-
Regarding its nomenclature, first the symbol of the metal is taken, and then the one of the hydroxyl radical (OH) is written. Then the valences are changed, taking the oxidation number. The hydroxyl radical is put in parentheses. To name with both nomenclatures, the same rule for the formulation of oxides should be used, but with the difference that the term oxide is changed to hydroxide. Example: Na2O + H2O = NaOH (sodium hydroxide).
There are different types of hydroxides, some of them are:
Sodium hydroxide (NaOH): It is widely used for the manufacture of soaps, body products and beauty. In the same way it participates in the elaboration of fabrics and paper.
Calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) 2): it is widely used in the metallurgical industry in the production of magnesium. In the manufacture of pesticides. In the food industry, for the manufacture of glues and gelatins, for preserving fruits and vegetables, for the manufacture of salt, for processing the water used to produce alcoholic and carbonated beverages.
Lithium hydroxide (LIOH): it is used for the manufacture of ceramics.
Magnesium hydroxide (Mg (OH) 2): is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for the manufacture of antacids, laxatives, vitamins and food supplements.
Barium hydroxide (Ba (OH) 2): it is used in the manufacture of ceramics, poisons for rats. As a component in sealing substances and for treating boiler water.
Ferric hydroxide (Fe (OH) 3): is used as a fertilizer in plants.
