Question

Glycerol is added to soap. It functions :

• A. as a filler
• B. to increase lathering
• C. to prevent rapid drying
• D. to make soap granules

Answer 1

The correct option is C to prevent rapid drying

Cleansing action of Soaps and detergents-

• Most of the dirt is oily in nature and oil does not dissolve in water. The molecule of soap constitutes sodium or potassium salts of long chain carboxylic acids. In the case of soaps, the carbon chain dissolves in oil and the ionic end dissolves in water.
  
• Glycerol is a humectant - a substance that attracts water.
  
• It has the ability to draw in moisture preventing drying of the skin.
• Hence, Glycerol is added to soap to prevent rapid drying.