Final answer:
The dissolution reaction for sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in water is NaOH(aq) → Na+ (aq) + OH¯(aq), showing that NaOH is soluble in water.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dissolution reaction for sodium hydroxide in water is:
NaOH(aq) → Na+ (aq) + OH¯(aq)
In this reaction, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) dissolves in water and disassociates into sodium (Na+) and hydroxide (OH¯) ions, indicating the solubility of sodium hydroxide in water. Given the 100% ionization of NaOH due to it being a strong base, the correct answer to the student's question is that sodium hydroxide is soluble(a).