Sodium carbonate
Sodium Carbonate
Sodium carbonate (/ˈsoʊdiəm ˈkɑːrbəneɪt/), also known as soda ash or washing soda, is a sodium salt of carbonic acid (H2CO3). Its chemical formula is Na2CO3.
Etymology
The term "sodium carbonate" is derived from the elements that make up its chemical structure: sodium (Na), derived from the English word "soda", and carbonate (CO3), a salt of carbonic acid.
Description
Sodium carbonate is a white, crystalline solid that is odorless and has a strong alkaline taste. It is highly soluble in water and forms a strongly alkaline solution. It is used in a wide variety of applications, including glass manufacturing, pulp and paper production, soap making, and water treatment.
Related Terms
- Sodium bicarbonate: Also known as baking soda, it is a compound with the formula NaHCO3. It is a salt composed of a sodium cation (Na+) and a bicarbonate anion (HCO3−).
- Carbonic acid: A weak acid with the chemical formula H2CO3. It is formed in solution when carbon dioxide is dissolved in water.
- Soda ash: Another name for sodium carbonate, primarily used in the glass manufacturing industry.
- Washing soda: A common name for sodium carbonate, used in household cleaning and laundry.
Uses
Sodium carbonate is used in various industries for different purposes. In the glass industry, it is used as a flux for melting silica. In the soap and detergent industry, it is used as a builder or filler to give a smoother surface. In the chemical industry, it is used in the production of sodium compounds. It is also used in water treatment as a pH regulator to maintain stable alkaline conditions necessary for the action of the majority of photographic developers.
Health Effects
Exposure to sodium carbonate can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset and vomiting. Long-term exposure can lead to more serious health problems such as chronic bronchitis and skin ulcers.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sodium carbonate
- Wikipedia's article - Sodium carbonate
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