Practice mode Everyday Science

Why do soaps and detergents remove dirt from clothes?

Correct answer B. Lowering of interfacial tension

Explanation

Soap molecules lower the interfacial tension between water and oily dirt; their hydrophobic tails attach to grease and their hydrophilic heads pull it into the water as micelles.

Report a problem

Answer checked How we write and check questions

Tip: press A, B, C or D to answer, and N for the next question.

Advertisement

Have a question about this answer?

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Links and website addresses are not allowed in comments.