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Other common uses of sodium hydroxide include: for making soaps and detergents. Sodium hydroxide is used for hard bar soap, while potassium hydroxide is used for liquid soaps. [33] [34] Sodium hydroxide is used more often than potassium hydroxide because it is cheaper and a smaller quantity is needed.
Lye is a hydroxide, either sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. The word lye most accurately refers to sodium hydroxide (NaOH), [ citation needed ] but historically has been conflated to include other alkali materials, most notably potassium hydroxide (KOH).
Calcium hydroxide is also used to clean the sulfur dioxide, which is caused by the exhaust, that is found in power plants and factories. [9] Magnesium hydroxide is used as an 'antacid' to neutralize excess acid in the stomach and cure indigestion. Sodium carbonate is used as washing soda and for softening hard water.
Sodium was first isolated by Humphry Davy in 1807 by the electrolysis of sodium hydroxide. Among many other useful sodium compounds, sodium hydroxide is used in soap manufacture, and sodium chloride (edible salt) is a de-icing agent and a nutrient for animals including humans. Sodium is an essential element for all animals and some plants.
Caustic potash/caustic wood alkali – potassium hydroxide, formed by adding lime to potash. Caustic Soda/caustic marine alkali – sodium hydroxide, NaOH, formed by adding lime to natron. Caustic volatile alkali – ammonium hydroxide. Corrosive sublimate – mercuric chloride, formed by subliming mercury, calcined green vitriol, common salt ...
Drain cleaners usually contain a strong base such as sodium hydroxide that decomposes hair and converts fats into water-soluble products. The reaction is exothermic, releasing heat to soften the fats. Drain cleaners can also contain aluminum, which reacts with sodium hydroxide to produce bubbles of hydrogen gas that help to break up the clog. [11]