Step 1: Saponification Defined
Saponification is the soap-making process. It involves the reaction (hydrolysis) of an ester with an alkali (typically sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide).
This reaction utilizes fats or oils, which are esters of fatty acids.
Step 2: Option Analysis
- Option (1): Ester: Correct. Saponification specifically hydrolyzes ester bonds.
- Option (2): Alcohol: Incorrect. Alcohols do not undergo saponification; they aren't part of soap production.
- Option (3): Carboxylic acid: Incorrect. Carboxylic acids can form esters, but don't directly participate in saponification.
- Option (4): Alkane: Incorrect. Alkanes, as saturated hydrocarbons, do not undergo saponification.
Step 3: Summary
Saponification uses esters, reacting them with alkali to produce soap and alcohol.
Conclusion:
Saponification uses Esters.