Question

The compound obtained by heating a caustic soda solution with linseed oil can be used as a
1. Fuel
2. Fertilizer
3. Plastic
4. Soap

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 4 : Soap

The correct answer is Soap.

The compound obtained by heating a caustic soda solution with linseed oil can be used as a Soap.

• Soaps are Sodium or Potassium salts of fatty acids.
  • They are made from fats or oils.
  • The process of making soaps is known as Saponification.
• Formula- Soap contains a negatively charged ion of fatty acid (looks like C₁₇H₃₅COO-) and the positively charged ion of either Sodium (Na+) or Potassium (K+).
• The fatty acid ion is known as the tail of the soap molecule and sodium or potassium ion is known as the head of the soap molecule
  • So the formula becomes C₁₇H₃₅COONa ( fatty acid in the composition can change)
• These are also known as stearates of sodium or potassium. 
• They fall into the category of salts.

• Hard soaps are made using Sodium hydroxides.
  • They are manufactured by the hot process of saponification.
  • In the hot process, hot oils and lye are combined to initiate saponification.
• Soft soaps are made using Potassium hydroxide.
  • They are manufactured by the cold process of saponification.