Washing soda is the common name for:a)Sodium carbonateb)Calcium bicar...
Sodium carbonate (also known as washing soda or soda ash), Na2CO3 is a sodium salt of carbonic acid. Sodium bicarbonate or sodium hydrogen carbonate is the chemical compound with the formula NaHCO3. Sodium bicarbonate is a white solid that is crystalline but often appears as a fine powder. Since it has long been known and is widely used, the salt has many related names such as baking soda, bread soda, cooking soda, and bicarbonate of soda.
Hence, the correct option is (A).
Washing soda is the common name for:a)Sodium carbonateb)Calcium bicar...
Understanding Washing Soda
Washing soda, commonly referred to as sodium carbonate, is a versatile chemical compound with various applications, particularly in cleaning and laundry.
Chemical Composition
- Chemical Formula: Sodium carbonate is represented by the formula Na2CO3.
- Common Names: It is also known as soda ash or soda crystals.
Properties
- Appearance: Washing soda appears as a white, crystalline solid.
- Solubility: It is highly soluble in water and forms a strongly alkaline solution, making it effective for cleaning purposes.
Uses of Washing Soda
- Household Cleaning: Washing soda is widely used as a cleaning agent, effective at removing grease and stains.
- Laundry: It enhances the effectiveness of detergents and helps in softening water, allowing for better cleaning of fabrics.
- Industrial Applications: Sodium carbonate is used in glass manufacturing, as a pH regulator, and in chemical synthesis.
Comparison with Other Compounds
- Calcium Bicarbonate: Not used for cleaning; it is more commonly involved in water hardness and is represented as Ca(HCO3)2.
- Sodium Bicarbonate: Also known as baking soda (NaHCO3), it serves different purposes like baking and mild cleaning.
- Calcium Carbonate: This compound (CaCO3) is mainly used in construction and as a dietary supplement but is not a cleaning agent.
In summary, washing soda is indeed sodium carbonate, valued for its cleaning properties and industrial applications, making it a staple in many households and industries.