Deliquescent substances are materials that have a high affinity for moisture from the environment. They absorb water vapor from the air until they dissolve in the absorbed water, forming a solution. Sodium hydroxide is an example of a deliquescent substance.
This property poses challenges when attempting to weigh sodium hydroxide accurately. As soon as NaOH is exposed to air, it begins to absorb moisture and partially dissolve, which makes obtaining an accurate mass measurement nearly impossible.
In laboratory settings, precautions need to be taken when handling deliquescent substances:
- Store in airtight containers to prevent contact with moisture
- Weigh in a low-humidity environment if possible
- Minimize the time the substance is exposed to air
Understanding these characteristics helps in accurately preparing and using deliquescent substances.