hydroxide<\/a>, commonly called caustic soda, is an extremely reactive and strong base used in industries for various purposes such as cleaning, soap and detergent production, pulp and paper manufacturing, etc. One important application of sodium hydroxide is in carbon dioxide treatment; in this article, we’ll investigate how the concentration of this element affects carbon dioxide absorption.<\/span><\/p>\nWhat is Carbon Dioxide?<\/b><\/h3>\n
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an inert, colorless gas in the atmosphere. It’s produced through natural processes like respiration, volcanic eruptions, and the decay of organic matter. Furthermore, carbon dioxide is also a byproduct of industrial activities like fossil fuel combustion or cement production. Unfortunately, the increasing concentration of CO2 has majorly contributed to global warming and climate change through its effect on ocean temperatures.<\/span><\/p>\nSodium Hydroxide and Carbon Dioxide:<\/b><\/h3>\n
Sodium hydroxide reacts with carbon dioxide to form sodium carbonate and water in what is known as a neutralization reaction. This exothermic reaction can be represented mathematically through the following equation:<\/span><\/p>\nNaOH + CO2 = Na2CO3 + H2O<\/strong><\/p>\nThe concentration of sodium hydroxide plays an important role in this reaction. The higher the concentration, the faster it will occur. Nevertheless, be wary, as too much sodium hydroxide could result in severe burns.<\/span><\/p>\n