Question

What is the purpose of adding sodium hydroxide to the reaction mixture?

O To precipitate the solid product out.
O Sodium hydroxide functions as a catalyst in aldol condensation
O To adjust the pH of the reaction mixture.

Answer 1

Sodium hydroxide is added to a reaction mixture to adjust its pH by increasing alkalinity and possibly participating in the reaction, but not as a catalyst or a precipitating agent.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of adding sodium hydroxide to a reaction mixture is to adjust the pH of the reaction mixture. Sodium hydroxide is a strong base that dissociates into sodium (Na+) and hydroxide (OH-) ions when dissolved in water, increasing the alkalinity of the mixture. This is important in chemical reactions where a certain pH is required for the reaction to proceed optimally, or for the purpose of neutralizing acids within the mixture.

Furthermore, the hydroxide ions may participate in the reaction mechanism, such as in aldol condensations, which can lead to the production of desired compounds. However, it is not typically employed as a catalyst, nor is it used to precipitate solids directly in such reactions.