Zinc hydroxide has the chemical formula Zn(OH)2. It is a white, slightly soluble solid that is found in nature as the mineral smithsonite. Zinc hydroxide is amphoteric, meaning that it can react with both acids and bases. With acids, it forms zinc salts, and with bases, it forms zincate ions. Zinc hydroxide is used in a variety of applications, including the production of zinc compounds, as a fire retardant, and as a pigment.