Question

Much of the household cleaning, that was once performed using soap, is now performed using synthetic detergents. A major advantage of synthetic detergents over soaps is that they:

• A. have a lower resistance to bacterial decomposition
• B. form soluble compounds with common metal ions
• C. are non-polar and dissolve more readily in grease
• D. are more readily synthesized from common fats and oils

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

form soluble compounds with common metal ions

Soap is made from animal fats or vegetable oils, while detergents are made from the byproducts of petroleum. Detergent molecules are also able to break up oil droplets, making them very useful for cleaning grease stains from clothing. When oil droplets and detergent molecules mix, they form an emulsion, making them easier to wash away from fabrics.