Sodium Hydroxide Formula: NaOH

Sodium hydroxide, commonly known as caustic soda or lye, is a strong base with the chemical formula NaOH. It is composed of one sodium ion (Na+) and one hydroxide ion (OH-). In this formula, "Na" represents sodium, "O" represents oxygen, and "H" represents hydrogen.

Composition of Sodium Hydroxide:
- Sodium (Na): Sodium is an alkali metal and is highly reactive. It has a single electron in its outermost shell and readily donates this electron to form a positive ion (Na+).
- Oxygen (O): Oxygen is a nonmetal and is highly electronegative. It gains electrons to form negative ions (O2-) and can also form hydroxide ions (OH-).
- Hydrogen (H): Hydrogen is a nonmetal and can form positive ions (H+) by losing its single electron.

Structure of Sodium Hydroxide:
Sodium hydroxide exists as a solid crystal at room temperature. Its crystal lattice structure consists of repeating units of sodium ions (Na+) and hydroxide ions (OH-) held together by ionic bonds. The sodium ion is surrounded by six hydroxide ions in an octahedral arrangement, and each hydroxide ion is surrounded by six sodium ions.

Formation of Sodium Hydroxide:
Sodium hydroxide is typically produced through the electrolysis of sodium chloride (NaCl), a process known as the chloralkali process. During electrolysis, a direct electric current is passed through a solution of sodium chloride, causing the sodium ions (Na+) to migrate to the negative electrode (cathode) and the chloride ions (Cl-) to migrate to the positive electrode (anode).

At the cathode, sodium ions gain electrons and are reduced to form sodium metal (Na), which reacts with water to produce sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen gas (H2):
2 Na+ + 2 e- → 2 Na (sodium metal)
2 Na + 2 H2O → 2 NaOH + H2 (sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas)

Uses of Sodium Hydroxide:
Sodium hydroxide has numerous industrial applications, including:
- Production of soap and detergent
- Manufacturing of paper and textiles
- Water treatment and purification
- pH regulation in various industries
- Extraction of alumina from bauxite in the production of aluminum
- Drain cleaning and unclogging
- Food processing and preparation
- Some household cleaning products

Precautions:
Sodium hydroxide is a highly caustic substance and can cause severe burns. It is essential to handle it with care and wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when working with it. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances and sources of heat or ignition.