i really need to know what alkalis and acids are in soap!!! FOR TOMMOROW!
Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. Here is something on soaps from a Chemistry site:
http://www.cleaning101.com/cleaning/chemistry/
page 2 = http://www.cleaning101.com/sdalatest/html/soapchemistry2.htm
To understand the composition of soap, it is important to know about alkalis and acids.
Acids are substances that release hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water. They have a sour taste and can corrode metals. Some common examples of acids are lemon juice, vinegar, and sulfuric acid.
On the other hand, alkalis, also known as bases, are substances that release hydroxide ions (OH-) when dissolved in water. They have a bitter taste and feel slippery when touched. Some common examples of alkalis are baking soda, ammonia, and sodium hydroxide.
When it comes to soap, it is a type of salt that is formed through a chemical reaction called saponification. Saponification occurs when a fat or oil (which contains triglycerides) reacts with an alkali (such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide). The reaction breaks down the triglycerides into glycerol and fatty acids, which then combine with the alkali to form soap molecules.
In other words, soap is made by the reaction of a fatty acid with an alkali. The fatty acids are derived from natural oils or fats, while the alkali provides the necessary hydroxide ions.
So, in soap, alkalis (such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide) are used as a reactant to convert fats or oils into soap molecules. Acids are not directly involved in the formation of soap, but they can be present in small amounts as impurities or additives.
For more detailed information on the chemistry of soap, I recommend visiting the website provided:
- http://www.cleaning101.com/sdalatest/html/soapchemistry2.htm