Final answer:
Alkaline substances like sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide are used in the process of saponification to hydrolyze fatty acid-based surfactants, resulting in soap and glycerol. Enzymes and alkaline salts also aid in cleaning by breaking up proteins and converting fatty acids into sodium salts, respectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The alkalis used to hydrolyze fatty acid-based surfactants in the production of soap are typically strong bases such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH). This process is known as saponification, which involves the alkaline hydrolysis of fats or oils. The result of this reaction is the formation of glycerol and salts of fatty acids, commonly known as soaps.
Detergent manufacturing may also utilize sodium carbonate or other alkaline salts which serve to convert fatty acids into their sodium salts (soap molecules). Additional components like enzymes can be included to help break up protein-based food deposits and fats during the cleaning process.
All-purpose cleaners often consist of surfactants such as alkylbenzenesulfonates alongside water softeners like sodium triphosphate to enhance cleaning efficiency, especially in hard water conditions.