Question

In soap manufacturing, the triglycerides present in oils and fats are hydrolyzed to mainly produce

• A. Fatty acids and glycerol
• B. Glycerol only
• C. Fatty acids only
• D. Glycerol and paraffins

Hint:

In soap manufacturing, triglycerides are hydrolyzed to form fatty acids and glycerol. The fatty acids react with a base to form soap.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In the process of soap manufacturing, triglycerides (which are esters of fatty acids and glycerol) are hydrolyzed by an alkali. This reaction breaks the ester bonds and produces fatty acids and glycerol.

Step 1: Hydrolysis of Triglycerides
Triglycerides react with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH) in a reaction known as saponification. This results in the formation of fatty acids and glycerol.

Step 2: Conclusion
The main products of this reaction are fatty acids (which combine with sodium or potassium to form soap) and glycerol.

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Fatty acids and glycerol.}} \]