Soda ash, scientific name sodium carbonate, is an important basic chemical raw material, commonly known as block alkali, stone alkali, soda (Soda), and mouth alkali (historically, it was generally transported nationwide through Zhangjiakou and Gubeikou, hence the term "mouth alkali") Sodium carbonate is a white powder or particle at room temperature. No odor. It is a strong base and weak acid salt. Has water absorption. Gradually absorb 1mol/L of water (about 15%) in exposed air. Decompose and effervescent when exposed to acid. Soluble in water (3.5 parts at room temperature and 2.2 parts at 35 ℃) and glycerol, insoluble in ethanol. The aqueous solution is strongly alkaline with a pH of 11.6. Relative density (25 ℃) 2.53. Melting point 851 ℃. Half lethal dose (30 days) (mouse, abdominal cavity) 116.6mg/kg. It is stimulating. It can be formed by a chemical reaction between sodium hydroxide and carbonic acid. The solution is alkaline.