Barium Hydroxide

Barium hydroxide is a chemical compound with the chemical formula Ba(OH)2. It is a white, odorless solid that is soluble in water and has a strong alkaline taste. Barium hydroxide is commonly used in laboratory applications, such as in the production of barium compounds and as a reagent for acid-base titrations.

Barium hydroxide is highly reactive with acids and can cause severe burns if it comes into contact with skin or eyes. Therefore, appropriate safety precautions must be taken when handling this compound, including wearing protective gloves and eye protection.

When dissolved in water, barium hydroxide undergoes hydrolysis to form barium ions (Ba2+) and hydroxide ions (OH-). This reaction is exothermic and can release significant amounts of heat. Barium hydroxide also has the ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the air, forming barium carbonate (BaCO3), which reduces its solubility in water.

In addition to its laboratory applications, barium hydroxide is also used in some industrial processes, such as the refining of beet sugar and the production of lubricating oils. However, due to its toxicity and environmental impact, its use in these applications is becoming increasingly restricted.