Hydroxide, << hy DROK syd, >> is a chemical ion. An ion is one or a group of atoms with an electric charge that act together in chemical reactions. The hydroxide ion has a negative charge and is composed of a hydrogen atom and an oxygen atom. Many compounds containing the hydroxide ion dissolve in water solutions, producing ionic solutions. For example, sodium hydroxide dissolves to form sodium ions and hydroxide ions in water. The hydroxide ion combines with metals and certain nonmetals to form compounds that are basic, acidic, amphoteric (basic or acidic), or neutral.
Basic hydroxides are the most familiar hydroxides. A dilute solution of ammonium hydroxide is household ammonia. Basic hydroxides in water solutions conduct electricity. They have a bitter taste and feel slimy or soapy. Strong basic solutions burn the skin. When a basic hydroxide combines with an acid, water and a salt are formed. Both the acid and the base are neutralized, thereby increasing the alkalinity of the resulting solution and reducing its acidity. Hydroxides are used to make such products as detergents, medicines, paper, and textiles.
