Conversations on Chemistry, V. 1-2 / In Which the Elements of that Science Are Familiarly Explained and Illustrated by Experiments

by Mrs. Marcet

EMILY.

Is not that the common table salt?

MRS. B.

The very same; but again we must postpone entering into the particulars of this interesting combination, till we treat of the neutral salts. Soda may be obtained from common salt; but the easiest and most usual method of procuring it is by the combustion of marine plants, an operation perfectly analogous to that by which potash is obtained from vegetables.

EMILY.

From what does soda derive its name?

MRS. B.

From a plant called by us soda, and by the Arabs kali, which affords it in great abundance. Kali has, indeed, given its name to the alkalies in general.

CAROLINE.

Does soda form glass and soap in the same manner as potash?