What is lye

[Sarah Fox]

Hi Isaac,

> Can you please give me a good translation for the usual word "lye" , I

Sodium hydroxide  (NaOH)

... often confused with "lime," which is calcium oxide (CaO).

Lye is the principal ingredient in drain cleaner.  At one time it was
available in the hardware stores without colorants, perfumes, aluminum
flakes, and other assorted junk.

Peace,
Sarah