Is there a chemical reaction when detergent cleans grime or grease or dirt?

Answer 1

Mostly the changes are not chemical at all, but physical changes. It does depend on what kind of stain and what kind of detergent. Soap itself only works by physical changes, and not by chemical means at all. However, things like bleach or other bleaching agents (such as whiteners) do cause chemical reactions to remove stains.

Perhaps somebody can add some information here about how bleach and whitening agents work?

See the Related Questions to the left for more information about how soap works.

Answer 2

Yes, detergents work by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate and lift dirt, grime, and grease from surfaces. This process, known as emulsification, involves the detergent molecules surrounding and encapsulating the dirt particles, making it easier to wash them away with water. While there isn't a traditional chemical reaction in the way we think of it, the detergent's molecular structure interacts with the dirt to facilitate its removal.

Answer 3

chemical

Answer 4

yes