Question

In the saponification process, what is the purpose of thoroughly mixing the fat with sodium hydroxide?

A. To raise the pH of the mixture and drive the reaction towards equilibrium

B. To produce an emulsion in which there is a greater surfac area upon which the sodium hydroxide can react with the fat molecules

C. To separate the soap molecules from the water to promote ease of filtering

D. To generate distinctly separate layer of fat and sodium hydroxide

E. To prevent formation of soap scum

Answer 1

Answer

In saponification process, fat is converted into soap by reacting it with sodium hydroxide. As we want good yield of soap, we mix the fat with sodium hydroxide thoroughly, so that it will produce greater surface area by emulsion and sodium hydroxide molecules can react with fat molecules.

So, the answer is (B).