Which is the strongest base, NaOH or Ba(OH)2? Also, mention the reason.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
Ba(OH)₂ is the stronger base compared to NaOH.
Explanation
A base is considered strong when it dissociates completely in water to produce hydroxide ions (OH⁻). Both sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and barium hydroxide (Ba(OH)₂) are classified as strong bases because they dissociate fully in aqueous solution. However, a comparison between the two reveals a significant difference in the number of hydroxide ions released per formula unit.
Sodium hydroxide is a monobasic base, meaning it releases only one hydroxide ion per molecule upon dissociation:
NaOH → Na⁺ + OH⁻
Barium hydroxide, on the other hand, is a dibasic base. Each molecule of Ba(OH)₂ produces two hydroxide ions:
Ba(OH)₂ → Ba²⁺ + 2OH⁻
This means that for the same number of formula units, Ba(OH)₂ introduces twice as many hydroxide ions into the solution as NaOH. Consequently, the concentration of OH⁻ ions in a Ba(OH)₂ solution is higher, resulting in a higher pH and stronger basic properties.
Additionally, barium hydroxide remains highly dissociated in water, especially in dilute solutions, allowing it to exert a stronger effect in neutralizing acids or increasing pH. While both compounds are ionic and fully dissociate in water, the release of more hydroxide ions gives Ba(OH)₂ a stronger alkalinity.
From a titration or neutralization perspective, fewer moles of Ba(OH)₂ are needed to neutralize a given amount of acid, due to the two hydroxide ions per mole. This enhances its effective basicity per mole of compound.
In conclusion, barium hydroxide (Ba(OH)₂) is stronger than sodium hydroxide (NaOH) because it delivers more hydroxide ions per mole of substance, resulting in greater alkalinity and stronger base behavior.
