sodium carbonate

pH = 11.6

Sodium carbonate is used in the manufacture of glass, pulp and paper, detergents, and chemicals such as sodium silicates and sodium phosphates.[1] It is also used as an alkaline agent in many chemical industries.

Domestically it is used as a water softener during laundry. It competes with the ions magnesium and calcium in hard water and prevents them from bonding with the detergent being used. Without using washing soda, additional detergent is needed to soak up the magnesium and calcium ions. Called washing soda in the detergent section of stores, it effectively removes oil, grease, and alcohol stains.

Sodium carbonate is widely used in photographic processes as a pH regulator to maintain stable alkaline conditions necessary for the action of the majority of developing agents.

Sodium carbonate is also used by the brick industry as a wetting agent to reduce the amount of water needed to extrude the clay.

Sodium carbonate is also used in Ramen to make it "instant".

Soda Ash is also a common additive in municipal pools used to neutralize the acidic effects of chlorine and raise pH.[2]