Discover the fascinating history and science of soap! This episode delves into the chemical reaction called saponification, which transforms fats or oils and lye into the cleaning products used daily. Learn about soap's ancient origins, dating back to Babylon around 2800 BCE, where it was initially used for industrial cleaning rather than personal hygiene. For centuries, soap remained a luxury, becoming widely accessible only in the 19th century due to the Industrial Revolution. Rationing during World War II spurred the creation of synthetic detergents ("syndets") from petroleum, which are prevalent in many modern cleaning products. This episode also answers the age old question, "Who invented liquid soap and why?"
Want to learn more? Head over to my website www.funfactsdailypod.com and be sure to listen to my other podcasts Who ARTed: Weekly Art History for All Ages or Art Smart. For family fun, check out my son's podcast Rainbow Puppy Science Lab
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