Sodium carbonate is divided into two categories, light and heavy. These two compounds do not differ chemically in their molecular structure and in this sense they are completely identical. The only difference between them is the density and size of their crystals and actually their physical properties. The light type of this product is a fine white powder that has no specific smell and its density is half of its heavy form.

Most applications of heavy sodium carbonate are as a solid material, especially in the manufacture of glass and ceramic tiles. The use of light sodium carbonate is traditionally required as the solution chemical. In general, about 50% of the total production of sodium carbonate is used in the manufacture of glass and related to its heavy type, 18% in the manufacture of other chemicals, 10% in soaps and detergents, and the rest is used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.