Properties of sodium hydroxide

The properties of sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide are very similar. These hydroxides are prepared by the electrolysis of aqueous NaCl and KCl solutions (see Section 19.8) both hydroxides are strong bases and very soluble in water. Sodium hydroxide is used in the manufacture of soap and many organic and inorganic compounds. Potassium hydroxide is used as an electrolyte in some storage batteries, and aqueous potassium hydroxide is used to remove carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide from air. 

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