Soap

Soap A lot of Chemistry happens when you use soap. It is a process of "like dissolves like". "Like dissolves like" is the idea that when similar molecules are brought together, they bond - as opposed to molecules that are different that oppose each other and don't bond (like oil and water). When dirt and grease get on your hands, it doesn't mix with water, therefore you cannot get your hands clean as easy. When you add soap, it works with the water to surround and lift the dirt and such off your hands. This is possible throught the "like dissolves like" concept where the molecules in soap and water bond together. the hydrophobic tail of soap binds to fats and oils (also hydrophobic) and the hydrophilic head binds to hydrophilic things like dirt. The difference in the head and tail makes for a universal solvent which also dissolves in water to remove it from your skin.



Soap making processes
The industrial production of soap involves continuous processes, involving continuous addition of fat and removal of product. Smaller-scale production involve the traditional batch processes. There are three variations: the //cold-process//, wherein the reaction takes place substantially at room temperature, the //semi-boiled// or //hot-process//, wherein the reaction takes place at near-boiling point, and the //fully boiled process//, wherein the reactants are boiled at least once and the glycerol recovered. The cold-process and hot-process (semi-boiled) are the simplest and typically used by small artisans and hobbyists producing handmade decorative soaps and similar. The glycerine remains in the soap and the reaction continues for many days after the soap is poured into moulds. The glycerine is left during the hot-process method, but at the high temperature employed the reaction is practically completed in the kettle, before the soap is poured into moulds. This process is simple and quick and is the one employed in small factories all over the world.

Liquid Soap There are said to be pros and cons to both bar and liquid soap. Often times soaps are harsh and wash off more than just dirt they rid your skin of the moisture it needs. Liquid soaps like body washes generally have moisturizers in them but are generally fragranced which turns people away. Bar soap tends to be more affordable than liquid soap but it leaves a slimy mess on the counter by the sink.