A strong base is a basic chemical compound that is able to deprotonate very weak acids in an acid-base reaction. The strength of a base is indicated by its pKb value, compounds with a pKb of less than about 1 are called strong bases. Common examples of strong bases are the hydroxides of alkali metals and alkaline earth metals like NaOH and Ca(OH)2. In water strong bases form hydroxyl ions (OH-), either by complete dissociation through solvation (metal hydroxides) or by chemical reaction with water (e.g. NaH and LDA).
Very strong bases are even able to deprotonate very weakly acidic C-H groups in the absence of water.
Common examples
Medium strong bases
Strong bases
Very strong bases
See also
External links
Last updated: 08-29-2005 04:08:48
Last updated: 09-12-2005 02:39:13