1.
What does "trace" refer to in soapmaking?
Correct Answer
A. Trace is the point in the soap making process when oils and lye water have emulsified and the mixture begin to thicken.
2.
How should lye and water be mixed together?
Correct Answer
B. Add the lye to the water slowly.
Explanation
When mixing lye and water, it is important to add the lye to the water slowly. This is because adding water to lye can cause a violent reaction, resulting in a release of heat and potentially splashing the mixture. By adding the lye to the water slowly, it allows for better control of the reaction and reduces the risk of accidents or injuries.
3.
What most likely happened to this soap, to cause soda ash on top?
Correct Answer
B. The soap was not insulated or sprayed with 99% alcohol.
Explanation
The most likely explanation for the soda ash on top of the soap is that it was not insulated or sprayed with 99% alcohol. Insulation or spraying the soap with alcohol helps to prevent the formation of soda ash, which is a common occurrence in soap making. When the soap is not properly insulated or sprayed with alcohol, it can be exposed to air and moisture, which can result in the formation of soda ash on the surface of the soap.
4.
Butters and hard oils cause soap to reach a thick trace faster than liquid oils.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Butters and hard oils have a higher melting point and are solid at room temperature, while liquid oils are in a liquid state. When these solid fats are added to soap making, they contribute to a faster thickening of the soap mixture, known as reaching a "thick trace." This is because the solid fats take longer to melt and incorporate into the soap mixture, causing it to thicken more quickly compared to liquid oils. Therefore, the statement that butters and hard oils cause soap to reach a thick trace faster than liquid oils is true.
5.
What does "gel phase" do to cold process soap?
Correct Answer
C. Gel pHase gives soap a shiny, more translucent appearance. It also helps colors to appear brighter.
Explanation
During the gel phase in cold process soap making, the soap undergoes a chemical reaction called saponification. This reaction transforms the fats and oils in the soap into soap molecules. Additionally, the gel phase gives the soap a shiny and more translucent appearance. It also enhances the brightness of the colors used in the soap.
6.
What are the most preferred soapmaking temperatures?
Correct Answer
B. 120-130 degrees F. But, it will depend on the recipe!
Explanation
The most preferred soapmaking temperatures are 120-130 degrees F, but it will depend on the recipe. Different soap recipes may require slight variations in temperature to achieve the desired results.
7.
Safety gear (goggles, gloves, long sleeves and pants) should be worn throughout the entire soapmaking process.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Safety gear, such as goggles, gloves, long sleeves, and pants, should be worn during the entire soapmaking process to protect the skin and eyes from potential hazards. This is important because soapmaking involves working with chemicals and hot substances that can cause burns or irritation. Wearing the appropriate safety gear ensures the safety and well-being of the person making the soap.
8.
How long (in general) should cold process soap stay in the mold? How long does it need to cure?
Correct Answer
A. Unmold after 3-4 days. Cure for 4-6 weeks.
9.
Sodium lactate can be added to lye solution to help soap harden faster.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Sodium lactate, when added to a lye solution, can indeed help soap harden faster. This is because sodium lactate acts as a humectant, which means it attracts and retains moisture. When added to soap, it helps to draw moisture from the air, which in turn helps the soap to harden more quickly.
10.
Olive Oil, coconut oil and palm oil are considered the three most common soapmaking oils. Each give cold process soap different properties. What are they?
Correct Answer
D. Olive oil is gentle, coconut oil is cleansing and palm oil is firm.
Explanation
Olive oil is gentle on the skin and provides a moisturizing effect. Coconut oil has strong cleansing properties and helps to remove dirt and impurities from the skin. Palm oil adds firmness to the soap and helps it to lather well.