How would adding lye (NaOH) to the sink drain remove the

Last updated: 8/3/2022

How would adding lye (NaOH) to the sink drain remove the blockage? Adding NaOH will saponify lipids, forming glycerol and salts of the fatty acids that are soluble in water and would wash down the drain. Adding NaOH will saponify lipids, forming glycerol and salts of the fatty acids that are soluble in nonpolar organic solvents. Adding NaOH will decompose lipids, forming CO₂ and H₂O. Adding NaOH will saponify lipids, forming ethylene glycol and salts of the fatty acids that are soluble in water and would wash down the drain.