Aluminium Hydroxide Formula
The chemical formula for aluminium hydroxide is Al(OH)3. This formula indicates that one molecule of aluminium hydroxide contains one atom of aluminium (Al), and three molecules of hydroxide ion (OH-).
Each hydroxide ion consists of one hydrogen atom and one oxygen atom, with a negative charge due to an extra electron. The three hydroxide ions in aluminium hydroxide are attracted to the positively charged aluminium ion, forming a stable compound.
Aluminium hydroxide is an amphoteric substance, meaning it can act as both an acid and a base. In acidic solutions, it can accept protons (H+) to become positively charged, while in basic solutions, it can donate protons to become negatively charged.
Aluminium hydroxide has various uses, including as an antacid to neutralize stomach acid, in water treatment processes to remove impurities, and as a flame retardant in materials such as plastics and textiles.