The leachate of a certain plant ash is used in local soap making because it contains
-
A.
sodium chloride and potassium hydroxide -
B.
sodium hydroxide -
C.
potassium hydroxide -
D.
soluble carbonates and hydrogen carbonates
Correct Answer: Option B
Explanation
Lye is the most commonly used alkali for soap-making. The chemical name for lye is sodium hydroxide. (A lye is a metal hydroxide traditionally obtained by leaching ashes (containing largely potassium carbonate or “potash”), or a strong alkali which is highly soluble in water producing caustic basic solutions.)