Final answer:
The reaction NaOH + H2O → Na+ + OH- is the dissociation of a strong base, where NaOH completely disassociates into sodium and hydroxide ions in water.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reaction NaOH + H2O → Na+ + OH- represents the dissociation of a strong base in water. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is classified as a strong base because it disassociates completely into sodium (Na+) and hydroxide (OH-) ions when dissolved in water. Unlike weak bases that only partially dissociate, strong bases like NaOH release hydroxide ions very easily, which readily become available in the solution.
When referring to this type of reaction, a single arrow is used, indicating that the reaction proceeds almost to completion. It's important to note that in this reaction, the Na+ ion is considered a spectator ion, meaning it does not participate in the reaction and is often omitted from the net ionic equation of an acid-base reaction.