The molecular weight (molar mass) of NaOH (sodium hydroxide) is 40 g/mol. Sodium hydroxide is a strong base (alkali) commonly known as caustic soda. Its molecular weight is calculated by adding the atomic masses of sodium (Na = 23), oxygen (O = 16), and hydrogen (H = 1).
Molecular weight of NaOH = 40 g/mol
NaOH = Na (23) + O (16) + H (1) = 40
Common name: Caustic soda or Lye
Strong base: completely ionises in water
NaOH + HCl → NaCl + H₂O (neutralisation)
Used in soap making (saponification), paper industry, drain cleaners
Formula: NaOH = Na + O + H
Atomic masses:
Calculation: Molecular weight = 23 + 16 + 1 = 40 g/mol
Answer: Molecular weight of NaOH = 40 g/mol
Common name: Caustic soda, Lye Chemical name: Sodium hydroxide Formula: NaOH Molecular weight: 40 g/mol Physical state: White solid (pellets or flakes) Solubility: Highly soluble in water (exothermic dissolution) pH: ~14 (strongly alkaline in solution)
Chemical nature:
Industrial and common uses:
Neutralisation (acid-base): NaOH + HCl → NaCl + H₂O
With CO₂: 2NaOH + CO₂ → Na₂CO₃ + H₂O
Saponification (soap making): Fat/oil + NaOH → Soap (sodium salt of fatty acid) + Glycerol
With metals (amphoteric): 2NaOH + 2Al + 2H₂O → 2NaAlO₂ + 3H₂↑
With non-metals: 2NaOH + Cl₂ → NaCl + NaOCl + H₂O (used in bleach production)
The molecular weight of NaOH (sodium hydroxide) is 40 g/mol. Calculation: Na (23) + O (16) + H (1) = 40 g/mol.
NaOH is commonly known as caustic soda or lye. Its IUPAC name is sodium hydroxide. It is a strong base used in soap making, paper production, and as a drain cleaner.
NaOH is called caustic soda because it is highly corrosive ('caustic' means capable of burning or corroding). It can severely damage skin, eyes, and other materials. 'Soda' refers to its sodium content. It is also called lye.
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