answersLogoWhite

0

Sodium hydroxide, or lye, is used in drain cleaners because it is a strong alkaline compound that effectively breaks down organic materials such as grease, hair, and food particles. When dissolved in water, it generates heat through an exothermic reaction, aiding in the dissolution of clogs. Its high pH helps to saponify fats and oils, converting them into soluble substances that can be easily flushed away. This makes sodium hydroxide a powerful agent for clearing blocked drains.

User Avatar

AnswerBot

1w ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

What is the name of the alkali used as a drain cleaner?

Sodium Hydroxide.


Is drain cleaner a calcium hydroxide acid?

No, drain cleaner typically contains strong bases like sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, not acids. Calcium hydroxide is a strong base, not an acid. It is often used as a component in certain types of drain cleaners.


Why is sodium hydroxide used as a drain cleaner?

Sodium hydroxide is used as a drain cleaner because it is a strong base that can dissolve organic materials, grease, and hair that typically clog drains. When mixed with water, sodium hydroxide creates heat through an exothermic reaction, helping to break down blockages and clear drains.


What is the chemical formula for a base used as a drain cleaner?

The chemical formula of sodium hydroxide is NaOH.


Is sodium hydroxide same as sodium phosphate?

No. Sodium hydroxide is NaOH; it is a strong base often used in drain cleaner. Sodium phosphate is Na3PO4; it is a weak base with a number of applications in cleaning and in food.


Is drano an acid?

Yes, Drano is an alkaline substance used as a drain cleaner. It typically contains sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, which are strong bases, rather than acids.


What do you do with lye?

Combined with fat, it makes soap. Lye (sodium hydroxide) has also been used as a cleaner, disinfectant, drain opener, and as an industrial chemical.


What drain products are one hundred percent sodium hydroxide?

the drain products that are one hundred percent sodium hydroxide is Lye Crystal drain opener, this product is used a lot by commercial companies and industries.


How sodium hydroxide is used to open a drain?

Sodium hydroxide is a highly caustic material that will dissolve organic materials that commonly clog pipes.


Is potassium hydroxide used in cleaning products?

Yes, potassium hydroxide is used in cleaning products as a strong alkaline compound that helps to break down and dissolve dirt, grease, and other organic material. It is commonly found in oven cleaners, drain cleaners, and other heavy-duty cleaning products.


Which alkali is used to open a drain?

Sodium Hydroxide, also called caustic soda or lye.


What are the physical property uses of the compound Sodium Hydroxide?

Sodium hydroxide is a strong base with a high pH, making it useful in industry for neutralizing acids and controlling pH levels in various processes. It is also a key ingredient in the production of soaps, detergents, and paper. Additionally, it is used in cleaning products and as a drain cleaner due to its ability to dissolve organic materials.