Soda ash, or sodium carbonate, is used in glassmaking, detergents, cleaning, cooking, and even in swimming pools. It can help remove buildup, increase alkalinity in pools, and control acidity in food. It is also used in pharmaceuticals and can be made from trona or salt water. It is generally safe, but prolonged exposure to dust […]
Soy sauce is a staple in Asian cuisine made from fermented soybeans, wheat, and salt. Low-sodium soy sauce is available for those watching their sodium intake, with about 40% less sodium than regular soy sauce. A high-sodium diet can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, or kidney disease. Soy […]
Sodium nitrite is a chemical used as a preservative in meats and other foods. It preserves color, inhibits bacteria growth, and maintains freshness. It has medical applications but has been linked to cancer and headaches. Vitamin C can prevent its carcinogenic tendencies. Some advise avoiding it for children and pregnant/nursing women. Sodium nitrite is a […]
Americans consume too much sodium, with an average of 3,466 mg per day, exceeding the recommended levels of 2,300 mg for young, healthy people. Processed and fast foods account for 77% of sodium intake, and high blood pressure affects 90% of Americans. Older adults and African Americans should consume less than 1,500 mg per day. […]
Sodium selenite is used by farmers to increase selenium levels in animals, but humans have turned to it for medical purposes. It has advantages such as being antimicrobial and effective against cancer, but is not as bioavailable as natural selenium and may be toxic at high doses. Natural selenium is important for organ health and […]
A low-sodium diet is important for those with medical conditions like high blood pressure, kidney disease, and cardiovascular problems. Fresh foods like meats, fruits, and vegetables should be used instead of processed foods. The diet should not contain more than 1 teaspoon of sodium per day. It can be difficult to adjust to at first, […]
Sodium fluoride (NaF) is a compound used in toothpaste and as a chemical reagent. It was previously used to fluoridate water but has been replaced by other compounds. NaF is derived from fluorosilicic acid and can cause dental fluorosis if ingested in excess. It is also used in various industrial processes. Sodium fluoride is a […]
Aqueous sodium is sodium dissolved in water and can react in precipitation, acid-base, and redox reactions. It is an electrolyte solution with other ions such as chloride and calcium. Sodium is a reactive alkali metal and is isolated through electrolysis. It is used in various applications such as making titanium and street lamps. Aqueous sodium […]
Naproxen sodium is an NSAID used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever, but can cause serious side effects such as ulcers, bleeding, and liver toxicity. It interacts with certain drugs and is not suitable for pregnant women, children, and heavy drinkers. Over-the-counter versions are available, but only adults and children should take them. Naproxen sodium […]
Sodium saccharin is a widely used artificial sweetener found in many food products. It was discovered as a derivative of coal tar and is 300 to 500 times sweeter than sugar. Although controversially identified as a carcinogen in the past, it is still used in combination with other artificial sweeteners in food products. Sodium saccharin, […]
Sodium chloride and sulfuric acid can react to produce hydrochloric acid and sodium hydrogen sulfide. Heating speeds up the reaction, which is commonly done in a HCl generator. Safety precautions must be taken due to the corrosive nature of the products. Sodium chloride and sulfuric acid are two compounds that are often used in laboratories […]
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a common foaming and dispersing agent used in beauty, household, and industrial products. It has been controversial due to its potential toxicity, skin irritation, and possible carcinogenic effects. Despite being classified as non-carcinogenic by research-based organizations, animal rights activists have protested its use in clinical trials. SLS can also dry […]
Sodium is an important mineral for living organisms and is used in various consumer goods. It is a soft, reactive metal that occurs naturally in compounds. Sodium is identified by the symbol Na and was first isolated in 1807. It is heavily processed for production and used in various applications, but pure form requires careful […]
Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) is a versatile chemical used in cleaning products, food preservation, paints, ceramics, and toothpaste. It is generally regarded as safe and commonly used in detergents to soften hard water and prevent dirt from sticking. STPP is also used to preserve red meats, poultry, seafood, and beverages. However, it can make seafood heavier […]
Sodium is a soft, reactive, and malleable metal that is the sixth most abundant element on Earth. It has various uses, including as a coolant for nuclear reactors, a component in sodium vapor lamps, and a nutrient for humans, animals, and plants. It is also used to produce organic materials, disinfectants, and metal alloys. Sodium […]
Sodium acetate, made from vinegar and baking soda, is a versatile substance used as a preservative and pickling agent in the food industry, a cleaner for metal surfaces, and a component of IV solutions. It is also found in heating pads and can be used as a pocket warmer. Sodium acetate, or sodium ethanoate, is […]
Sodium silicate, composed of sodium, silica, and oxygen, is used in automotive repair, concrete treatment, and as a refractory. Sodium metasilicate is used in detergents, while sodium aluminum silicate forms minerals and is used as a food additive and in laundry detergents. Sodium silicate is one of several chemicals composed of sodium, silica, and oxygen. […]
Sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide can form sodium hydrogen sulfate or sodium sulfate. Bisulfate requires a one-to-one mole ratio, while sulfate needs two moles of sodium hydroxide. Sodium bisulfate is useful for pH lowering and metal finishing, while sodium sulfate is used in laundry detergents and fabric manufacturing. Handling sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide requires […]
