About Hydroxides

Hydroxide Formula Diagram (-OH)

The hydroxide ion consists of one atom each of hydrogen and oxygen held together by a covalent bond, together forming a polyatomic ion with a formal charge of -1. Hydroxides are compounds which contain this ion.

Inorganic hydroxides include hydroxides of alkali and alkali earth metals, many of which are important industrial alkalis such as sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) and calcium hydroxide. Boron hydroxide is also known as boric acid, as rather than dissociating in water, it reacts as a Lewis acid, releasing protons. Zinc and lead hydroxides are amphoteric—they can act as acids or bases. Transition metal and post-transition metal hydroxides are insoluble in water.