### Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH): A Detailed Overview
**1. Introduction**
Sodium hydroxide, commonly known as caustic soda or lye, is a highly caustic substance that is used widely in various industrial and laboratory applications. It is a strong base with the chemical formula NaOH.
**2. Physical Properties**
- **Molecular Weight:** 40.00 g/mol
- **Appearance:** White, odorless solid in its anhydrous form. When hydrated, it can appear as clear,