Saponification

About Saponification

Saponification is the base-catalyzed hydrolysis of triglycerides (fats and oils) to produce soap and glycerol. This ancient chemical process demonstrates nucleophilic substitution mechanisms where hydroxide ions attack the carbonyl carbon of ester bonds. Students observe how heating accelerates the reaction by providing activation energy and improving mixing of oil and water phases.

The resulting soap molecules have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic ends, making them excellent surfactants for cleaning oils and fats. Soap making dates back to ancient Babylon and revolutionized hygiene and public health. Modern variations of this process are still used in industrial soap production today.