What is the specific purpose of using potassium hydroxide during the saponification process ?

Saponification is the chemical process of making soap through the hydrolysis of fats or oils using an alkaline solution. The type of alkali used determines the texture and hardness of the resulting soap:

• Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH): This is used to produce hard soaps, which are typically found in solid bar form and are often used for laundry or general cleaning.
• Potassium Hydroxide (KOH): This is used to produce soft soaps or liquid soaps. Potassium soaps are more soluble in water and have a lower melting point than sodium soaps.

Because potassium soaps are more soluble and produce a finer, creamier lather, they are generally softer on the skin. They are preferred for personal care products such as shaving creams, liquid hand washes, and high-quality toilet soaps. Thus, Option B is correct as KOH is specifically chosen to achieve this softer quality.