What is a key characteristic of a strong base in aqueous solutions?

A strong base is characterized by its ability to completely dissociate in aqueous solutions. This means that when a strong base is dissolved in water, it breaks apart entirely into hydroxide ions (OH⁻) and the corresponding cations. This complete dissociation leads to a significant increase in the concentration of hydroxide ions in the solution, resulting in a high pH value.

For instance, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is an example of a strong base. When it dissolves in water, it dissociates fully into Na⁺ and OH⁻ ions. This complete separation facilitates the strong basic properties of the solution, making it very effective in reactions that require a high concentration of hydroxide ions.

This characteristic is crucial for understanding various chemical reactions and the behavior of bases in different contexts, especially in aqueous environments where the pH and ion concentrations play significant roles in determining chemical properties and reactivity.