answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

Sodium hydroxide will raise the pH of water and do a few things. As the pH is raised above 7 it will begin to eliminate carbonic acid. (2NaOH + H2CO3 >> 2H20 + 2NaCO3)

Hard water is composed of a soluble form of calcium and magnesium and some iron. The calcium and magnesium are in the form of bicarbonates.

The sodium hydroxide pulls hydrogen from the bicarbonates and converts them to insoluble carbonates. They then fall to the floor of the treatment vessel.

(2 OH- + Ca(HCO3)2 >> 2H2O + CaCO3

Magnesium can take the place of Calcium in this reaction.

All of this caused by atmospheric carbon dioxide dissolving things like limestone.

User Avatar

Wiki User

10y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How does sodium hydroxide help purify water?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

What is the purpose of titrating sodium hydroxide with an acid solution?

Determination of the concentration of sodium hydroxide in solution with the help of a neutralization reaction.


How can you identify hydrochloric acid sodium hydroxide and sugar solution with the help of turmeric indicator?

Hydrochloric acid: yellow color Sodium hydroxide: brown color Sugar: unchanged


What kind of machines purify water?

with the help of aquaguard


What do the water purifiers do to the tap water?

they purify it with the help of the process of filtration.


Does sodium hydroxide help in any way in treating cancer please get back soon?

Sodium hydroxide has been linked to cancer of the esophagus. Its extremely corrosive and can cause internal hemorrhaging.


How does storing water in reservoirs help to purify water?

Water is stored in a reservoir until needed. While stored, particles of dirt settle at the bottom. This helps to purify the water.


What is an example of a hydrous salt?

An example of a hygroscopic salt would be calcium chloride, a salt that absorbs water from the atmosphere to form a saturated solution


How does chlorine help purify water?

chlorine kills off all bacteria within the water


Why is sodium hydroxide often used in oven cleaners?

Because it is a base and bases help to clean things.


What does sodium hydroxide do in toothpaste?

Sodium hydroxide becomes very alkaline when dissolved in water, so it is used to neutralize the acidic pH imbalance caused by the other chemicals used in most toothpastes. Its common name is "lye" and it can be toxic if ingested. Therefore, toothpastes that contain sodium hydroxide often have a warning label that advises consumers to get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away "if more than used for brushing is accidentally swallowed".


How do ultraviolet rays help to purify water?

Ultraviolet rays kill harmful germs present in the water, hence purifying it.


Can water lilies be used to purify water for recycling?

Yes water lilies absorb nutrients that could cause algae bloom. They do help purify water.