Natrona

Natrona most commonly refers to Natrona County, Wyoming, a county in central Wyoming. The county seat is Casper. Natrona County forms part of the Casper metropolitan area and includes urban, suburban, and rural communities along with plains and foothill landscapes. The economy has historically centered on energy production, transportation, and government services, with education and health care playing significant roles in the local economy.

The name Natrona derives from natron, a natural deposit of sodium carbonate and bicarbonate minerals. The toponym has been applied to several places in the United States, often reflecting historical mineral resources or alkaline landscapes. Natrona County is the best-known bearer of the name, but smaller communities and districts in other states may also use Natrona.

Natron, the mineral, is a naturally occurring mixture of hydrated sodium carbonate and related salts. It has historical importance for its use in glassmaking, cleaning, and as a drying agent. In ancient times, natron powders were associated with mummification practices in Egypt. In contemporary usage, natron is primarily a scientific and industrial term, while Natrona remains primarily a geographic name in the United States.