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Sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) is an important inorganic compound commonly known as Washing Soda. It appears as a white crystalline solid and is highly soluble in water. Washing soda has been used for centuries in households and industries due to its strong alkaline nature.
Washing soda is mainly used as a cleaning agent because of its ability to remove dirt, grease, and oil. It softens hard water by precipitating calcium and magnesium salts, making detergents more effective. This is why it earned the common name Washing Soda.
Chemical Formula: Na₂CO₃
Nature: Strong base (alkaline compound)
Crystalline Form: Often found as Na₂CO₃·10H₂O (decahydrate)
Easily reacts with acids to release carbon dioxide (CO₂)
Plaster of Paris (Option A): This is chemically Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate (CaSO₄·½H₂O), used for making molds and casts, not related to sodium carbonate.
Common Salt (Option C): This is Sodium Chloride (NaCl), used in food seasoning and preservation, completely different from sodium carbonate.
None of these (Option D): Incorrect because the right answer is clearly Washing Soda.
Laundry & Cleaning: Removes grease, oil, and dirt.
Water Softening: Prevents scum formation with soaps.
Glass & Soap Industry: Important raw material in manufacturing.
Neutralizing Acids: Used in laboratories and industry.
Washing soda is strongly alkaline and must be handled carefully.
It is different from Baking Soda (NaHCO₃), which is milder and used in cooking.
It helps maintain the pH balance in swimming pools.
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