Saponification is the chemical reaction that occurs when fats or oils react with an alkali, usually sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. The primary products of saponification are soap and glycerol.
During this process, triglycerides, which are the main constituents of fats and oils, are broken down into their component fatty acids and glycerol. The alkali reacts with these fatty acids to form soap, which is a salt of the fatty acid.
In summary, the main products of saponification are:
- Soap: This is the primary product and acts as a surfactant, helping to emulsify oils and provide cleansing properties.
- Glycerol: This is a byproduct that is often retained in the soap, contributing to its moisturizing properties.
In simpler terms, saponification transforms fats into usable soap, making it an essential process in soap making.