Before revision: Acidic drain openers (in very high concentrations) hydrolyze proteins and fats via acid hydrolysis (acid-catalyzed hydrolysis), similar to their alkaline versions: RCONH2(amide or proteins) + H3O+ → NH4+ + RCOOH RCO2R'(ester or fats) + H2O → RCO2H + R'OH Concentrated sulfuric acid dehydrates substances containing carbohydrates, like tissue paper which consists of cellulose: ()n → 6n C + 5n Alkaline drain openers 200px|Pellets of sodium hydroxide (lye) Bottles of alkaline drain cleaners containing sodium hydroxide can dissolve greases and hair.
After revision: Acidic drain openers (in very high concentrations) hydrolyze proteins and fats via acid hydrolysis (acid-catalyzed hydrolysis), similar to their alkaline versions: RCONH2(amide or proteins) + H3O+ → NH4+ + RCOOH RCO2R'(ester or fats) + H2O → RCO2H + R'OH Concentrated sulfuric acid dehydrates substances containing carbohydrates, like tissue paper which consists of cellulose: ()n → 6n C + 5n Alkaline drain openers 200px|Pellets of sodium hydroxide (lye)