Sodium hydroxide, also known as caustic soda and caustic soda, has the chemical formula NaOH. It is a highly corrosive strong base, usually in the form of white flakes or granules. It can be mixed with water to form an alkaline solution, and can also be dissolved in methanol and ethanol. This alkaline substance is deliquescent and will absorb water vapor in the air, as well as acidic gases such as carbon dioxide. Sodium hydroxide is one of the commonly used chemicals. It has a wide range of applications and is a necessity in many industrial processes: it is often used in the manufacture of wood pulp paper, textiles, soaps and other detergents, and is also used in household alkaline drain cleaning products.