Hüdroksiidi

Hüdroksiidi is the Finnish word for hydroxide. A hydroxide is a chemical compound containing a hydroxyl functional group (−OH) bonded to a metal cation or other cation. Hydroxides are typically ionic compounds, formed when a metal reacts with water or oxygen in the presence of water. Common examples include sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2).

In aqueous solution, hydroxides often dissociate to release hydroxide ions (OH−), which are characteristic of alkaline or basic solutions. The pH of a solution is a measure of its acidity or alkalinity, and solutions with a high concentration of hydroxide ions have a pH greater than 7. Hydroxide ions are amphoteric, meaning they can react as both acids and bases. They can accept a proton to form water or donate a proton to form an oxide ion.

Hydroxides have a wide range of applications in various industries. Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye or caustic soda, is used in the manufacturing of soaps, detergents, paper, and textiles, as well as in petroleum refining and water treatment. Calcium hydroxide, or slaked lime, is used in construction, agriculture for soil conditioning, and in the food industry. Potassium hydroxide is used in the production of soft soaps, batteries, and as a fertilizer. Many metal hydroxides are insoluble in water and form precipitates, which are important in analytical chemistry and various industrial processes.