* Methanol is a weak acid. While it's not a strong acid like HCl, it can donate a proton (H+) to a strong base.
* Hydroxide is a strong base. It readily accepts protons.
When hydroxide (OH-) is added to methanol (CH3OH), the following reaction occurs:
```
OH- + CH3OH ⇌ CH3O- + H2O
```
* Hydroxide (OH-) abstracts a proton from methanol (CH3OH).
* Methoxide (CH3O-) is formed. This is the alkoxide in this case.
* Water (H2O) is also produced.
Important Note: This reaction is an equilibrium. While it favors the formation of methoxide, it's not a complete conversion. There will be a mixture of hydroxide, methoxide, methanol, and water in the solution.
Let me know if you'd like more details on alkoxides or this reaction!