Hydroxide is a chemical ion made up of one oxygen atom and one hydrogen atom, represented as OH⁻. It carries a negative charge, which means it can easily bond with positively charged ions, forming various compounds. Hydroxide is commonly found in bases, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH), and plays a crucial role in many chemical reactions. In water, hydroxide ions can affect the pH level, making a solution more basic. The presence of hydroxide is important in various applications, including cleaning products, water treatment, and even in biological systems where it helps maintain proper pH levels.