What kind of ionization occurs with a strong base like sodium hydroxide in solution?

In the case of a strong base like sodium hydroxide (NaOH), it undergoes complete dissociation when dissolved in water. This means that all of the NaOH molecules separate fully into their constituent ions: sodium ions (Na⁺) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻).

When a strong base dissolves in water, it does not remain in its molecular form; rather, it breaks apart completely, providing a high concentration of hydroxide ions in the solution. This is a characteristic feature of strong bases, which are defined by their ability to fully dissociate in aqueous solutions, thereby contributing to the high pH levels typical of such solutions.

The concept of complete dissociation is critical in understanding the behavior of electrolytes in water. Since NaOH provides an abundance of hydroxide ions, it significantly affects the acidity of the solution, making it very alkaline. This behavior is fundamental in numerous chemical applications, including neutralization reactions and titrations involving acids.

The other responses involve incorrect concepts about how strong bases behave in solution, such as the presence of unreacted base or partial ionization, which do not accurately reflect the properties of strong bases like sodium hydroxide.