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Detergents are generally more basic than seawater. Seawater has a pH typically around 7.5 to 8.4, while many detergents have pH values that can range from 9 to 12, depending on their formulation. This higher pH in detergents indicates a greater concentration of hydroxide ions, making them more alkaline compared to seawater.

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22h ago

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Why is detergent basic?

Generally speaking, soap contains surfactants, which are chemicals that cut the surface tension of water and which will "link up" with oil, grease and dirt to allow water to wash it away. There is a lot more to the chemistry of soap (sometimes called detergent), and links can be found below to learn more.


Why do you want soft water for washing clothes?

Soft water is preferred for washing clothes because it contains lower levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can make detergents less effective. Soft water allows detergents to lather more easily and clean clothes more thoroughly, resulting in brighter colors and softer fabrics. Additionally, soft water helps prevent buildup of minerals in the washing machine, extending its lifespan.


What ingredients are in detergent that change plants?

Detergents contain surfactants, which are compounds that reduce the surface tension of water. When sprayed on plants, detergents can break down the waxy cuticle on plant leaves, making them more susceptible to damage from the environment or other chemicals. This can lead to issues such as dehydration or the absorption of toxins.


Why are most shampoos made from detergents rather than soaps?

Most shampoos are made from detergents because they are more effective at removing dirt and oils from hair compared to soaps. Detergents also produce more foam and lather, which is desirable in shampoos. Additionally, detergents are pH balanced to be less harsh on the hair and scalp compared to traditional soaps.


What is the difference between soap and detergents?

Soap is sodium or potassium salts of fatty acids, and these days is usually used only for cleaning human skin, but in the past was used for many other cleaning purposes. Detergent is a substance used for cleaning, so soap is a type of detergent. Detergents are often surfactants (as is soap), which help to dissolve oils in water, useful in cleaning dirty dishes or greasy skin. Both detergent and soap can be harmful to skin (but are not always), and neither form kill or remove 100% of bacteria.

Related Questions

Why are detergents more effective than soaps for cleaning in hard water?

The reason detergents are more effective than soap for cleaning hard water has to do with their ingredients and their function. Most detergents have cleaning properties that are able to combat hard water and mildew. The function of soap, however, is less complex. The function of water is to make water even wetter than what it is. This does not necessarily mean it contains cleaning properties.


What is the difference between HE laundry detergents and regular laundry detergent?

HE laundry detergents are High Efficiency detergents. They are designed to make fewer suds than regular detergents and to work in clothes washers that use less water. Regular laundry detergents create a higher amount of soap suds and need more water to rinse the detergent out of the clothes being washed. The cleaning power of the two types of laundry detergent is about the same. However, you need to use the proper detergent for the type of washer you are using so that the washer can clean the clothes to the best of its ability.


Why have detergents replaced soap as washing agents?

Detergents are preferred over soap as washing agents because they are more effective in hard water, rinse off more easily, and are less likely to leave residue on clothes. Additionally, detergents can be formulated more precisely to target specific types of stains and fabrics.


Can you get oil and water to mix?

You can do this by stirring or agitating the oil and water together with soap or detergent. Different oils, soaps and detergents will work more or less efficiently.


Is a detergent basic or acidic?

Detergents are generally considered to be basic in nature. This is because they often contain surfactants, which have a tendency to be more basic due to their chemical structure.


Detergents differ from soaps in that?

Detergents are synthetic surfactants while soaps are made from natural fats and oils. Detergents are more effective in hard water compared to soaps. Detergents do not form scum in hard water like soaps do.


Does temperature of water have an effect on how well detergents remove stains?

Yes - usually hotter is better.


Why are green detergents less toxic than conventional detergents?

Green detergents are less toxic than conventional detergents because they typically contain natural and biodegradable ingredients, such as plant-based surfactants and enzymes. These ingredients break down more easily in the environment, reducing their overall impact on ecosystems and wildlife. Additionally, green detergents are free from harsh chemicals like phosphates, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances that can contribute to water pollution and harm aquatic life.


What are the benefits of using non-ionic detergents for cleaning compared to other types of detergents?

Non-ionic detergents are beneficial for cleaning because they are gentle on surfaces, effective in removing dirt and grease, and less likely to leave residue behind. Compared to other types of detergents, non-ionic detergents are less likely to cause skin irritation and are more versatile in their cleaning abilities.


What is the difference between soap and detergent used in modern households?

Soap is made from natural ingredients like fats and oils, while detergents are synthetic compounds. Soap is biodegradable and can be less harsh on the environment, while detergents are designed to be more effective at removing dirt and stains. Additionally, detergents are more suitable for hard water compared to soap.


What are the advantages of synthetic detergents over soap?

The advantages of synthetic detergents over soaps are :Synthetic detergents can be used even in case of hard water whereas soaps fail to do so. Unlike soaps, detergents do not form insoluble calcium and magnesium salts in hard water. They give lather in hard water also.Synthetic detergents can be used in the acidic medium while soaps fail to do so because of their hydrolysis to free acids.Synthetic detergents are soluble in water and hence form more lather than soaps.Synthetic detergents have a better cleansing action than soaps.Detergents do not cause irritation to the skin while soaps have this problem.


What is the advantage and disadvantage of soapless detergents?

Advantage: Soapless detergents are better at removing dirt and stains from fabrics compared to traditional soaps, as they do not leave a residue. They are also less likely to cause skin irritation or allergies. Disadvantage: Soapless detergents may not be as effective in hard water, as they can react with minerals and lose their cleaning power. Additionally, some soapless detergents are more expensive than traditional soaps.