- What it is. This sodium hydroxide solution is a 1.0 N (1.0 M) volumetric base, available in 1-quart and 1-gallon sizes. It is a clear, colorless alkaline solution used to titrate concentrated acids, prepare dilutions, and adjust pH.
- Molar equals normal. Sodium hydroxide releases one hydroxide ion per formula unit, so 1.0 N equals 1.0 M. Each liter contains about 40.00 g of NaOH, and each milliliter neutralizes 1.0 millimole of acid, equal to 36.46 mg of HCl (calculated).
- A convenient stock strength. At 1.0 N, the solution suits samples with high acid content and serves as a stock for preparing 0.1 N and 0.01 N solutions by accurate tenfold dilution with carbon dioxide-free deionized water.
- pH adjustment. One-normal sodium hydroxide is widely used to raise pH in buffer preparation, media and reagent formulation, and sample preparation, where its moderate strength allows controlled additions without large volume changes.
- Standardization. Standardize sodium hydroxide against dried potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP) using phenolphthalein or a pH meter. Re-standardize periodically, since hydroxide solutions absorb carbon dioxide from the air.
- Hazard level. One-normal sodium hydroxide is corrosive and can cause serious eye damage and skin burns, though it is far less aggressive than concentrated caustic. Wear goggles and gloves, and rinse splashes immediately with plenty of water.
- Two sizes. The 1 quart size (ZS0607-32) suits teaching labs and occasional pH adjustment, while the 1 gallon size (ZS0607-128) supports labs that dilute or titrate daily.
- Related products. For routine titrations, see Lab Pro's Sodium Hydroxide 0.1N/M, 1 Gallon. Indicate endpoints with Phenolphthalein Indicator 1% in IPA (1 Pint, 20 L).
- Calculating results. Acid content equals the titrant volume (mL) multiplied by the standardized normality and the acid's milliequivalent weight. For hydrochloric acid, each milliliter of 1.0 N sodium hydroxide corresponds to 36.46 mg.
- Where it is used. Laboratories use 1.0 N sodium hydroxide to titrate concentrated acids, prepare weaker standard bases, adjust pH in buffers and media, perform saponification and hydrolysis steps, and teach labs demonstrating strong-base chemistry.
Technical Specifications
| Chemical Name | Sodium hydroxide, aqueous solution |
| CAS Numbers | 1310-73-2 (sodium hydroxide); 7732-18-5 (water) |
| EC Number (NaOH) | 215-185-5 |
| Synonyms | Caustic soda solution, lye solution, NaOH solution |
| Formula (active) | NaOH |
| Molecular Weight (active) | 40.00 g/mol |
| Concentration | 1.0 N (1.0 M) |
| NaOH Content | About 40.00 g/L (calculated) |
| Neutralizing Capacity | 1.00 mL = 1.0 mmol acid; 36.46 mg HCl (calculated) |
| Typical Indicator | Phenolphthalein |
| Primary Standard | Potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP) |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Storage Note | Absorbs CO2; keep tightly closed |
| Exposure Limit (NaOH) | NIOSH REL 2 mg/m³ ceiling |
| Package Sizes | 1 quart; 1 gallon |
Available Variants
- ZS0607-32: 1 quart for teaching labs and occasional pH adjustment.
- ZS0607-128 (SH1180): 1 gallon for daily dilution and titration.
Applications / Common Uses
- Concentrated acid titration: Titrates samples with high acid content.
- Standard dilutions: Prepares 0.1 N and 0.01 N NaOH.
- pH adjustment: Raises pH in buffers and media.
- Hydrolysis steps: Supports saponification and alkaline hydrolysis.
- Teaching labs: Demonstrates strong base titration.
Storage, Handling & Shipping
Store tightly closed at room temperature, away from acids and reactive metals. Keep the container sealed to limit carbon dioxide absorption, and restandardize when results depend on exact normality.
- Incompatible materials: Acids, aluminum, zinc, tin, and other reactive metals.
- Exposure limit (NaOH): NIOSH REL 2 mg/m³ ceiling.
- Spill response: Contain, neutralize cautiously with a weak acid, and rinse with water.
- First aid: Eyes: flush with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Skin: rinse thoroughly.
Related Categories & Services
- Shop Bases for related products in this category.
- Explore Buffers, Standards & Solutions and ACS Grade Laboratory Chemicals.
- Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) Program: Lab Pro can stock, track, and replenish this item on site so it never runs out. Contact info@labproinc.com or 888-452-2776 to set up a VMI assessment.
