Chapter 21, Problem 11ALQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Interpret the cleansing action mechanism through fatty acid salts.

Concept Introduction:

Salt of fatty acid is known as soap. Soap formation takes place with the reaction of potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide with triglyceride.

Greese is a hydrophobic molecule thus having no effect of water on it, and can be removed with the help of soap or detergent.

Soap formation takes place with the involvement of potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide with triglyceride while triglycerides consist of glycerol and 3 fatty acids.