We are living in a world filled with chemical compounds, some of them being the most important things we use on a regular basis. Here are a few of the thousands of compounds that are most useful in our daily routines:
• Water (H2O) – No explanation is needed as to how important water is in our life. Basically, water is something that could help us survive even if we don’t have anything else.
• Sodium Chloride or Table Salt (NaCl) – Salt is used not only in cooking, but in cleaning as well. In fact, it is said that there are more than 14,000 specific uses for salt all in all.
• Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate or Baking Soda (NaHCO3) – Baking soda does not only have benefits around the kitchen, but is also used in beauty and health. It can be used as a cleaning and whitening agent, and is a great deodorizer as well.
• Sucrose or Table Sugar (C12H22O11) – Sucrose is used mainly in cooking and as a sweetener.
• Sodium Hypochlorite or Bleach (NaClO) – Bleach is used as a stain remover, disinfectant and deodorant. It is also used to treat water and to reduce skin damage.
• Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) – This is used as a germicidal agent and is the only one of its kind that is composed of oxygen and water. It is an alternative to bleach and is a potent disinfectant. It is also used in personal hygiene products like mouthwash and toothpaste, and is used to lighten hair. It is also used to sanitize meat and other food products.
• Acetone ((CH3)2CO) – Acetone has a number of medical and cosmetic uses, the most popular being as a nail polish remover. It is also a popular solvent and is used for other domestic and laboratory processes.
• Methane (CH4) – Methane is a natural gas that is used to refine crude oil. It is also used as a reactant to produce other substances such as chloromethanes and ammonia.
• Carbon Dioxide (CO2) – Carbon dioxide is used in the content of fire extinguishers and in the production of dry ice. It is also used in the production of carbonated drinks.
• Citric Acid (C6H8O7) – An organic compound, it is usually found in citrus fruits. It is used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
• Sodium Nitrate (NaNO3) – Sodium nitrate is used in the food and agriculture industry. It is also the prime ingredient in fertilizers.
• Ammonia (NH3) – Ammonia reacts with acids to produce salts. It is used in a lot of cleaning products.