Question

Which of the following bases is used for cleaning and commonly known as lye?
A.$Ca{(OH)_2}$
B.$NaOH$
C.$KOH$
D.All of the above

Answer 1

We need to understand the definition of lye and accordingly find which of the given bases is known as a lye. A lye is either a metal hydroxide created historically by leaching wood ashes, or a strong alkali that is extremely soluble in water and produces caustic basic solutions. We need to know that Lye is a chemical that may be used to make soap, demonstrate chemistry, make biodiesel, cure food, unclog drains, clean floors and toilets, and synthesise pharmaceuticals.

Complete answer:
We also need to know that sodium hydroxide is usually referred to as "lye" (NaOH). Lyes are highly prized for their ability to clean. Because of its grease-dissolving properties, sodium hydroxide is a prominent ingredient in commercial and industrial oven cleansers and clogged drain openers. We must have to know that the grease is decomposed by lyes by alkaline ester hydrolysis, resulting in water-soluble residues that are readily rinsed away.

Therefore, the correct option is option “B”.

Note:
We must note that Lye is most usually used to refer to sodium hydroxide (NaOH), although it has also been used to refer to potassium hydroxide in the past (KOH). We also need to know that the soap is made from lye, which comes in two forms: sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide. Potassium hydroxide soaps are softer than sodium hydroxide soaps and dissolve more easily in water. In terms of quantities and qualities, sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide are not interchangeable for manufacturing soap.