When calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) is mixed with water (H₂O), it can dissolve in water to form a solution. The dissolution process can be represented by the following chemical equation:
\[ \text{Ca(OH)}_2 (s) \ + \ \text{H}_2\text{O} (l) \ \rightleftharpoons \ \text{Ca}^{2+} (aq) \ + \ 2 \text{OH}^- (aq) \]
Calcium hydroxide is only sparingly soluble in water, so the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in the solution is typically low. This solution is often referred to as limewater and is used in various applications, including as a pH regulator, in construction, and for laboratory purposes.
If you have any specific questions about this reaction or its applications, feel free to ask!