Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Acid with NaOH

Al(OH)3 + NaOH → NaAlO2 + 2H2O

Übersicht

Aluminum hydroxide dissolves in sodium hydroxide solution, demonstrating its acidic character. The Al(OH)₃ acts as a Lewis acid, accepting OH⁻ to form the aluminate ion [Al(OH)₄]⁻. This amphoteric behavior is characteristic of elements near the metal-nonmetal boundary in the periodic table.

Teilnehmer

Rolle Substanz Koeffizient Zustand
Reaktant Aluminum Hydroxide Al(OH)₃ 1 (s)
Reaktant Sodium Hydroxide NaOH 1 (aq)
Produkt Water H₂O 2 (l)

Alltägliches Beispiel

The Bayer process for aluminum production exploits this amphoteric behavior, dissolving aluminum oxide in NaOH to separate it from iron oxide impurities.

Industrielle Bedeutung

Sodium aluminate is used in water treatment as a coagulant, in paper manufacturing, and in the Bayer process which produces over 130 million tonnes of alumina annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Acid with NaOH?
The balanced equation is: Al(OH)₃ + NaOH → NaAlO₂ + 2H₂O.
What type of reaction is Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Acid with NaOH?
Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Acid with NaOH is a acid-base reaction.
Is Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Acid with NaOH exothermic or endothermic?
Aluminum Hydroxide as Amphoteric Acid with NaOH is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -20.0 kJ/mol.