Question

sodium hydroxide, also called lye, is an ingredient in many soaps. it is also used to produce a shiny surface on pretzels! pretzels are dipped into lye solution before baking to create a shiny surface. sodium hydroxide is composed of sodium ions and hydroxide ions (oh⁻) bonded together. which formula correctly represents sodium hydroxide? choose 1 answer: a naoh b na(oh)₂ c na₂oh

Explanation:

Step1: Identify ion charges

Sodium ion ($Na^+$) has a + 1 charge and hydroxide ion ($OH^-$) has a - 1 charge.

Step2: Determine formula by charge - balance

To form a neutral compound, the charges must balance. Since the charges of $Na^+$ and $OH^-$ are equal in magnitude but opposite in sign, one sodium ion combines with one hydroxide ion.

Answer:

A. NaOH