S

Saponification

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What is Saponification?

Saponification is the alkaline hydrolysis of an ester to produce a carboxylate salt (soap) and an alcohol. The reaction of triglycerides (fats or oils) with sodium or potassium hydroxide yields glycerol and the sodium/potassium salts of fatty acids (soap). The term is also used more generally for the base hydrolysis of any ester. Saponification number is used to characterise oils and fats.

Key Facts

Term Saponification
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Frequently Asked Questions

Saponification is the alkaline hydrolysis of an ester to produce a carboxylate salt (soap) and an alcohol. The reaction of triglycerides (fats or oils) with sodium or potassium hydroxide yields glycerol and the sodium/potassium salts of fatty acids (soap). The term is also used more generally for the base hydrolysis of any ester. Saponification number is used to characterise oils and fats.

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AllChemicals.info — The Online Chemical Glossary | https://allchemicals.info/chemical/714-saponification

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