If I run a current through NaCl brine, I should be left with Sodium Hydroxide in the container?

Question

NaCl x H2O -->electrolysis (1/2)H2 (1/2)Cl2 NaOH.


And I can then use this Lye to make soap also?

Answer 1

Yes, this is precisely what is done commercially, but you have to stop the chlorine from diffusing back into the solution, and it is very nasty stuff. So do not try this at home.