JAMB Chemistry 1991 Question 45

Question 45

Fats, Oils and Soaps

One of the advantages of detergents over soap is that detergents

  1. A.are easier to manufacture
  2. B.foam more than soap
  3. C.form soluble salts with hard water
  4. D.are able to deter germs more than soap.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (form soluble salts with hard water)

Explanation

Soap forms an insoluble scum with calcium and magnesium ions in hard water. Detergents form soluble salts, so they still lather in hard water.