Final answer:
NaOH is a strong base that dissociates completely in water, releasing hydroxide ions and qualifying as a strong electrolyte.
Step-by-step explanation:
NaOH, also known as sodium hydroxide, is a strong base. When sodium hydroxide dissolves in water, it dissociates completely into sodium ions (Na+) and hydroxide ions (OH-), releasing hydroxide ions directly into the solution. This complete dissociation is characteristic of strong bases, which include hydroxides of alkali metals like NaOH, as well as hydroxides of heavy alkaline earth metals such as Ca(OH)2.
Since NaOH releases hydroxide ions very easily and does not remain undissociated in solution, it is considered a strong electrolyte. Unlike weak bases that do not dissociate completely, NaOH demonstrates a nearly 100% dissociation rate, which is why the concentration of each ion (Na+ and OH-) is the same as the initial concentration of NaOH.