1. Introduction
Salts are chemical compounds formed when acids react with bases, metals, or carbonates. They are not just limited to table salt — many different salts are used in food, medicines, cleaning, agriculture, industries, and daily household activities.
Different salts have different properties, colours, solubilities, and uses. Below are the most commonly used salts and their applications in everyday life.
2. Common Salts and Their Properties
Here are some widely used salts, along with their basic properties and where you will normally see them being used.
2.1. Sodium Chloride (NaCl)
This is the most familiar salt — also known as table salt or common salt. It is essential for the human body and is commonly used in cooking.
2.1.1. Uses of Sodium Chloride
- Used as table salt in food.
- Preserves food by preventing bacterial growth.
- Raw material for chemicals like hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide.
- Used in saline solutions in medicine.
2.2. Calcium Chloride (CaCl₂)
Calcium chloride is a white, crystalline salt that absorbs moisture from the air easily. It is called a drying agent because it removes water.
2.2.1. Uses of Calcium Chloride
- Used in dehumidifiers to remove moisture.
- Sprinkled on roads to melt ice in cold countries.
- Used in cement and concrete to speed up hardening.
- Added to packaged foods to maintain firmness.
2.3. Potassium Nitrate (KNO₃)
Potassium nitrate is a white crystalline salt used mainly in fertilizers and fireworks.
2.3.1. Uses of Potassium Nitrate
- Main ingredient in fertilizers because it provides potassium and nitrogen.
- Used in making fireworks and matches.
- Used in food preservation (curing meats).
- Used in some toothpaste to reduce tooth sensitivity.
2.4. Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) – Baking Soda
Sodium bicarbonate is a mild base commonly known as baking soda. It releases carbon dioxide when heated or when mixed with acids.
2.4.1. Uses of Baking Soda
- Used in baking to make cakes and bread soft and fluffy.
- Acts as an antacid to relieve indigestion.
- Used in fire extinguishers.
- Used for cleaning and deodorising in homes.
2.5. Sodium Carbonate (Na₂CO₃) – Washing Soda
Sodium carbonate is commonly known as washing soda. It is a strong base and is widely used in cleaning.
2.5.1. Uses of Washing Soda
- Used in detergents for removing grease and stains.
- Used to soften hard water.
- Used in glass, soap, and paper industries.
- Helps clean household surfaces and utensils.
2.6. Calcium Sulphate (CaSO₄·2H₂O) – Gypsum
Gypsum is a soft white mineral used in construction and education.
2.6.1. Uses of Gypsum
- Used to make plaster of Paris.
- Used in making ceilings, wallboards, and sculptures.
- Added to cement to slow down the setting time.
- Used in school chalk and modelling clay.
2.7. Magnesium Sulphate (MgSO₄·7H₂O) – Epsom Salt
Epsom salt contains magnesium and is widely used in health and gardening.
2.7.1. Uses of Epsom Salt
- Added to bathwater to relax muscles.
- Used as a fertilizer for magnesium-deficient soil.
- Used in medicines as a mild laxative.
- Used to reduce swelling and sprains.
3. Why Salts Are Important
Salts play a major role in our lives — from food and medicine to industry and agriculture. They help maintain health, support manufacturing, make cleaning easier, and contribute to technology and construction.
Because of their wide range of uses, salts are among the most valuable chemical compounds in daily life and industry.