Chapter 24, Problem 109A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The reaction between the given compound when hydrolyzed with boiling sodium hydroxide needs to be interpreted and the products of saponification to be given.

Concept introduction: A saponification reaction is one that involves the conversion of fat into soap and also the conversion of an alkali-metal hydroxide into alcohol.

The chemical reaction depicting saponification is given as follows:

  $\text{Fat}+\text{Alkali-metal hydroxide}\stackrel{\text{saponification}}{\to }\text{Glycerol}+\text{Soap}$

Answer to Problem 109A

The products of saponification are glycerol and sodium salts i.e., soap molecules.

The chemical reaction showing saponification of the given compound is depicted as follows:

  

Explanation of Solution

The process which involves the hydrolysis of fats and oils in the presence of an aqueous solution of alkali-metal hydroxide is known as saponification. This process is beneficial in the formation of soaps which are salts (alkali-metal) of fatty acids.

The chemical reaction showing saponification of the given compound (fat) is as follows:

  

Thus, the products are glycerol and sodium salts i.e., soap molecules.

Conclusion

The products of saponification are glycerol and sodium salts i.e., soap molecules.