Hydroxide: meaning, definitions and examples

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hydroxide

 

[ haɪ'drɒksaɪd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemical compound

Hydroxide refers to a negatively charged ion (OH-) that consists of one oxygen atom covalently bonded to one hydrogen atom. It is commonly found in various chemical compounds, particularly bases. Hydroxides are essential in many chemical reactions and processes, often acting as a strong base that can neutralize acids. In aqueous solutions, hydroxides can significantly affect the pH, making them crucial in both laboratory and industrial settings.

Synonyms

alkali, base, hydroxyl ion

Examples of usage

  • Sodium hydroxide is used in cleaning agents.
  • The reaction produced water and hydroxide ions.
  • Hydroxide ions can neutralize acids.

Translations

Translations of the word "hydroxide" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hidróxido

🇮🇳 हाइड्रॉक्साइड

🇩🇪 Hydroxid

🇮🇩 hidroksida

🇺🇦 гідроксид

🇵🇱 wodorotlenek

🇯🇵 水酸化物

🇫🇷 hydroxyde

🇪🇸 hidróxido

🇹🇷 hidroksit

🇰🇷 수산화물

🇸🇦 هيدروكسيد

🇨🇿 hydroxid

🇸🇰 hydroxid

🇨🇳 氢氧化物

🇸🇮 hidroksid

🇮🇸 hýdroxíð

🇰🇿 гидроксид

🇬🇪 ჰიდროქსიდი

🇦🇿 hidroksid

🇲🇽 hidróxido

Etymology

The term 'hydroxide' originates from the combination of the Greek prefix 'hydro-' meaning 'water' and 'oxide,' which refers to the presence of oxygen in compounds. The concept of hydroxides gained prominence in the early 19th century with the advancement of chemistry as a science. Notably, hydroxides were first recognized in the context of base formation and acid neutralization reactions. As chemists studied various properties of metals and nonmetals, the hydroxide ion was identified as a critical component in understanding acid-base reactions. Over time, hydroxide has become a fundamental part of chemical education, highlighting not just its theoretical significance but also its practical applications in industries such as pharmaceuticals, wastewater treatment, and food processing.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,441 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.