Question

What is the difference between caustic soda and caustic potash? Why are they called caustic?

Answer 1

Caustic Soda: It is common name for the compound Sodium Hydroxide(NaOH).

Caustic Potash: It is common name for the compound called Potassium hydroxide(KOH).

Reason for NaOH and KOH being called Caustic:

1. Both Sodium hydroxide and Potassium hydroxide are very strong alkali(bases).
2. They are called caustic because of their corrosive nature, if a concentrated solution of these comes in contact with the skin it can cause severe damages.

Therefore, Sodium hydroxide and Potassium hydroxide are called caustic.