Saponification

Saponification is a chemical process that transforms fats or oils into soap. It occurs when these fats react with a substance called a base—commonly lye (sodium hydroxide) or potassium hydroxide. During the reaction, the fats break down into soap molecules and glycerol. This process is fundamental in soap-making, creating the cleansing agents we use daily. Essentially, saponification turns greasy, oily substances into a water-soluble soap that can trap dirt and oils, making them easy to rinse away.