Which compounds are referred to as Soda Ash?

Soda ash is commonly known as sodium carbonate, which plays a significant role in various applications, including water treatment. It is used to soften water, adjust pH levels, and precipitate minerals from wastewater. The term "soda ash" specifically refers to the anhydrous form of sodium carbonate. Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, is a related compound but is not what is ordinarily identified as soda ash.

In the context of wastewater treatment, the presence of soda ash aids in removing hardness ions such as calcium and magnesium by forming insoluble precipitates. This fundamental property makes sodium carbonate (soda ash) essential in managing water quality and ensuring regulatory compliance during treatment processes.

The other compounds mentioned do not fall under the standard definition of soda ash. Sodium hydroxide, for instance, is a separate alkaline substance typically used for its strong caustic properties. Ferric chloride is an inorganic compound often utilized as a coagulant in water treatment, while calcium carbonate is a well-known mineral used for different purposes but does not carry the same classification as soda ash.