To answer the question asked on the previous blog post. In the base-catalyzed hydrolysis (saponification) of a triglyceride, each ester group reacts with hydroxide ions. The hydroxide attacks the carbonyl carbon, forming a tetrahedral intermediate that collapses to give a carboxylate ion (RCOO⁻) and a glyceroxide leaving group. The glyceroxide is then protonated by water, producing glycerol (HO–CH₂–CH(OH)–CH₂–OH).

The overall reaction is:
Triacylglycerol + 3 NaOH → Glycerol + 3 Sodium carboxylates (soap molecules).

These sodium salts of fatty acids are the “soap” products, while glycerol remains as a neutral, water-soluble by-product. If the mixture is acidified afterward, the sodium carboxylates convert to free fatty acids (RCOOH). So, the correct products after complete base hydrolysis are three sodium carboxylate salts and glycerol, not a cyclic structure.

No, disagree :

The first step is to add OH- at the carbonylgroup. Then kick out the alcoholate RO- and get Carbonic acid. In second step acid neutralize the alcoholate to alcohol an get the salt of the acid.

Water is not involved!

https://share.google/images/HqwOst5o4mCSy05ex

Edited October 15Oct 15 by chenbeier