Hydroxide ions are represented by which formula?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the UCF BSC2010C Biology I Exam with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Sharpen your skills to succeed in your Biology I assessment!

Hydroxide ions are represented by the formula OH-. This ion consists of one oxygen atom covalently bonded to one hydrogen atom, carrying a negative charge. Hydroxide ions are commonly found in basic (alkaline) solutions and play a crucial role in various chemical reactions, particularly in acid-base chemistry.

Understanding the composition of hydroxide is essential when studying its interactions in biological systems, as it can affect pH levels and enzyme activity. The structure of the hydroxide ion contributes to its reactivity and importance in various biochemical processes, such as cellular respiration and photosynthesis. The other choices represent different entities: H+ is a hydrogen ion, H2O is water, and O2 is molecular oxygen, none of which denote hydroxide.