potassium hydroxide

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a white, deliquescent, water-soluble solid, KOH, usually in the form of lumps, sticks, or pellets, that upon solution in water generates heat: used chiefly in the manufacture of soap, as a laboratory reagent, and as a caustic.

potassium hydroxide

noun

1. a white deliquescent alkaline solid used in the manufacture of soap, liquid shampoos, and detergents. Formula: KOH Also calledcaustic potash See also lye

potassium hydroxide

1. A white, corrosive, solid compound used in bleaches and to make soaps and detergents. It is deliquescent, soluble in water and very soluble in alcohol. In solution, it forms lye. Chemical formula: KOH.

Word History and Origins

Origin of potassium hydroxide¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The conversion system loses efficiency as byproducts of the reaction such as potassium hydroxide begin forming on the copper catalyst.

From Science Daily

Instead they use alcohol and add a potassium hydroxide base.

From Science Daily

Using cobalt hydroxide and lithium hydroxide as starting materials, with sodium or potassium hydroxide as an additive, the team conducted a series of high-precision experiments under varying conditions to synthesize layered LiCoO2 crystals.

From Science Daily

The process, known as resomation, uses a mix of potassium hydroxide and water to break down human remains in what is billed as a more sustainable option.

From BBC

In these batteries, a water-based electrolyte spiked with potassium hydroxide or another alkaline material separates a zinc anode and a cathode made of other conductive materials, often porous carbon.

From Science Magazine