Hydroxyl groups (-OH) are already present in water in the form of the hydroxide ion (OH-). To extract hydroxyl groups from water in a laboratory setting, various chemical reactions can be utilized. One common method involves reacting water with an acid to form H3O+, and then adding a base to neutralize the acid and liberate the hydroxyl ion.
Another method involves electrolysis of water, where an electric current is passed through water to split it into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. The hydroxyl ions are produced during the electrolysis process.
Additionally, certain chemical compounds such as alumina or activated carbon can be used to selectively absorb hydroxyl ions from water, allowing for their separation from the solvent.
How can hydroxyl be extracted from water?
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