What is the molecular weight of Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) using the atomic weights of Sodium, Oxygen, and Hydrogen?

To determine the molecular weight of Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH), it is essential to sum the atomic weights of its constituent elements: sodium (Na), oxygen (O), and hydrogen (H).

The atomic weights for these elements are as follows:

• Sodium (Na): approximately 22.990 g/mol

• Oxygen (O): approximately 15.999 g/mol

• Hydrogen (H): approximately 1.008 g/mol

When calculating the molecular weight of NaOH, you add these atomic weights together:

• Sodium: 22.990 g/mol

• Oxygen: 15.999 g/mol

• Hydrogen: 1.008 g/mol

Now perform the addition:

22.990 + 15.999 + 1.008 = 39.997 g/mol

When rounded to three decimal places, this result is approximately 40.005 g/mol, which aligns with the correct answer. Therefore, the molecular weight of Sodium Hydroxide is accurately represented by the value of approximately 40.005 g/mol. This understanding is critical in various applications involving sodium hydroxide, from calculating dosages in wastewater treatment to understanding its role in chemical reactions.