What are the uses of Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)?
What are the uses of Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)?
Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) is a highly reactive and versatile compound that is used in a variety of applications. Here are some of the uses of Sodium Hydroxide:
HTML Bold: Industrial Applications
Sodium Hydroxide is widely used in industrial applications due to its strong alkaline properties. Some of the industrial applications of Sodium Hydroxide include:
- Soap Making: Sodium Hydroxide is used in the production of soap. It reacts with fats and oils to form soap and glycerol.
- Paper Making: Sodium Hydroxide is used in the production of paper. It breaks down lignin, a component of wood, and separates fibers, making it easier to produce paper.
- Textile Industry: Sodium Hydroxide is used in the textile industry to remove impurities from fabrics, such as cotton and silk.
- Petroleum Industry: Sodium Hydroxide is used in the petroleum industry to refine crude oil into gasoline, diesel fuel, and other products.
- Food Industry: Sodium Hydroxide is used in the food industry to process and preserve foods, such as olives and pickles.
HTML Bold: Cleaning Agents
Sodium Hydroxide is also used as a cleaning agent due to its strong alkaline properties. Some of the cleaning agents that use Sodium Hydroxide include:
- Drain Cleaners: Sodium Hydroxide is used in drain cleaners to dissolve clogs and blockages in drains.
- Oven Cleaners: Sodium Hydroxide is used in oven cleaners to dissolve grease and grime on oven surfaces.
- Bathroom Cleaners: Sodium Hydroxide is used in bathroom cleaners to dissolve soap scum and mineral deposits on bathroom surfaces.
HTML Bold: Medical Applications
Sodium Hydroxide is also used in medical applications due to its ability to dissolve organic matter. Some of the medical applications of Sodium Hydroxide include:
- Tissue Dissolution: Sodium Hydroxide is used to dissolve tissues in medical procedures, such as in the treatment of ingrown toenails and warts.
- Autopsy Procedures: Sodium Hydroxide is used in autopsy procedures to dissolve tissues and bones, making it easier to examine organs and bones.
In conclusion, Sodium Hydroxide is a highly versatile compound that is used in a wide variety of applications, ranging from industrial to medical uses. Its strong alkaline properties make it an essential component in many cleaning agents, while its ability to dissolve organic matter makes it useful in medical procedures.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 10 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 10.