Hydroxides

Compounds containing an OH^- - group.

The chemical equilibrium of the reaction of OH^- - groups with protons is strongly favouring the formation of the product, water. Therefore, free OH^- is a strong base. The basic character of hydroxides is determined by their tendency to liberate this group. Sodium hydroxide, for example, easily liberates the OH^- - group (strong base), iron hydroxide, in contrast, rather retains this group (weak base).