Hydroxide Ion

A hydroxide ion is a negatively charged particle (OH⁻) formed when a water molecule (H₂O) loses a hydrogen ion (H⁺). It plays a key role in chemistry, especially in acids and bases. Bases release hydroxide ions into solutions, making them less acidic. These ions can react with acids to neutralize them, which is the basis for many cleaning products and biological processes. Hydroxide ions are essential for maintaining pH balance in environments like the human body and natural water systems.