Which type of substances ionize in solution to produce OH ions?

Substances that ionize in solution to produce hydroxide ions (OH⁻) are classified as bases. When a base dissolves in water, it dissociates into its constituent ions, one of which is the hydroxide ion. This process increases the concentration of OH⁻ ions in the solution, resulting in an alkaline or basic environment.

For instance, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a common base that, when placed in water, separates into sodium ions (Na⁺) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻). This property of bases is essential in various chemical reactions, including neutralization, where a base reacts with an acid to produce water and a salt.

Understanding the behavior of acids, bases, electrolytes, and salts helps to navigate their roles in chemical reactions and formulations, but it is the bases specifically that are known for producing hydroxide ions in solution.