JAMB - Chemistry (1986 - No. 28)
What reaction takes place when palm-oil is added to potash and foam are observed?
Neutralization
Saponification
Esterification
Salting-out
Explanation
The reaction of palm oil with potash is known as saponification reaction, palm oil serves as the organic acid(palmitic acid) while potash( conc. KOH) serves as the base leading to the formation of soap(the presence of bubbles indicate the formation of soap)