Soap
| Formula / Notation | RCOO⁻Na⁺; e.g., C₁₇H₃₅COO⁻Na⁺ (sodium stearate) |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Fatty acid salt, sodium soap, potassium soap, surfactant soap |
What is Soap?
The sodium or potassium salt of a long-chain fatty acid, produced by saponification of fats or oils with a strong base. Soaps are surfactants with a hydrophilic carboxylate head and a hydrophobic hydrocarbon tail. They are less effective in hard water because calcium and magnesium ions form insoluble precipitates.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Fatty acid salt, sodium soap, potassium soap, surfactant soap
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
The sodium or potassium salt of a long-chain fatty acid, produced by saponification of fats or oils with a strong base. Soaps are surfactants with a hydrophilic carboxylate head and a hydrophobic hydrocarbon tail. They are less effective in hard water because calcium and magnesium ions form insoluble precipitates.
Soap is used as a surfactant for cleaning and personal hygiene. Soft soaps (potassium-based) are used in liquid hand washes and industrial cleaners. Soaps are used in lubricating greases and as emulsifying agents in cosmetics.
Soap is generally mild but highly concentrated soap solutions can be irritating to skin and eyes. Soap is biodegradable and less environmentally persistent than synthetic detergents.
The formula or notation for Soap is: RCOO⁻Na⁺; e.g., C₁₇H₃₅COO⁻Na⁺ (sodium stearate)