The chemical formula NaOH represents which compound?

The chemical formula NaOH represents sodium hydroxide. This compound is composed of sodium (Na), oxygen (O), and hydrogen (H). The presence of one sodium ion (Na⁺) and one hydroxide ion (OH⁻) in the formula is what characterizes sodium hydroxide. This compound is a strong base commonly used in various applications, including in chemical manufacturing, cleaning agents, and in the production of soaps. The arrangement of these elements in the formula clearly indicates it is not sodium chloride, which consists of Na⁺ and Cl⁻, nor is it sodium carbonate, which includes a carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻), or sodium bicarbonate, which contains the bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻). Understanding the specific ions that make up a compound is crucial for correctly identifying it based on its chemical formula.