10 Examples of Alkalis in Everyday Life

Alkalis are substances that react with acids to form salts. They have a pH of greater than 7. Alkalis are often used to clean, neutralize acids, and soften water.

Examples of Alkalis

Here are common examples of alkalis:

1.    Detergents 

Sodium lauryl sulfate, an organic compound that is a foaming agent and surfactant. It is used in many household and industrial cleaning products, including detergents, shampoos, and soaps.

2.    Soaps 

Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), also known as caustic soda, is a strong alkali that is used to make soaps. It reacts with fats and oils to form soap molecules, which have cleansing properties.

3.    Glass 

Sodium carbonate (Na2CO₃), also known as soda ash, is an alkali that is used to make glass. It reacts with sand and lime to form a molten glass.

4.    Soda ash

Sodium carbonate (Na2CO₃), also known as soda ash, is an alkali that is used in many industrial and household applications. It is used in detergents, soaps, glass, and paper production.

5.  Baking soda 

Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), also known as baking soda, is a weak alkali that is used in baking, as a leavening agent. It reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, which causes baked goods to rise.

6.      Antacids

Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂) and calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) are alkaline compounds that are used to neutralize stomach acid. They are available as over-the-counter medications and are also found in some foods, such as milk of magnesia.

7.    Lime 

Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), also known as slaked lime, is an alkali that is used in whitewashing, making mortar and concrete, and treating water. It is also used as a fertilizer.

8.  Caustic soda

Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), also known as caustic soda, is a strong alkali that is used in many industrial applications, such as soapmaking, papermaking, and petroleum refining. It is also used in some household products, such as oven cleaners and drain cleaners.

9.  Potash

Potassium hydroxide (KOH), also known as caustic potash, is a strong alkali that is used in many industrial applications, such as soapmaking, glassmaking, and textile manufacturing. It is also used in some household products, such as drain cleaners and oven cleaners.

10.   Vinegar

Acetic acid (CH₃COOH) is a weak acid that is found in vinegar. It is used in cooking, pickling, and cleaning. Vinegar can also be used to neutralize some alkalis, such as baking soda.