Here's a breakdown:

* Na₂CO₃: This is the chemical formula for sodium carbonate, a white, crystalline solid commonly known as washing soda.

* ·10H₂O: This part indicates that the sodium carbonate is hydrated, meaning it has 10 water molecules associated with each molecule of sodium carbonate.

Therefore, Na₂CO₃·10H₂O is a hydrated form of sodium carbonate. It is a common industrial chemical used in various applications, including:

* Water softening: It removes calcium and magnesium ions from hard water.

* Detergent production: It acts as a cleaning agent and builder in detergents.

* Glass production: It serves as a flux in glassmaking.

It is important to note that this compound is readily soluble in water and loses its water of hydration upon heating, transforming into anhydrous sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃).