Question

‘Action of soap is based on the emulsification and micelle formation.’ Comment on it.

Hint:

Soaps and detergents work by emulsifying oily dirt into water-soluble micelles.

Answer 1

Step 1: Structure of soap molecules.
Soap molecules consist of two parts: - A long non-polar hydrophobic tail (hydrocarbon chain). - A polar hydrophilic head (–COO$^-$ group).
Step 2: Micelle formation.
When soap is added to water, molecules arrange themselves into spherical aggregates called micelles. The hydrophobic tails remain inside, while the hydrophilic heads face water. This allows soap to trap grease and oil.
Step 3: Emulsification.
Grease and oil droplets are surrounded by soap micelles, converting them into small emulsified particles that can be washed away with water.
Conclusion:
The cleansing action of soap is due to micelle formation and emulsification, which removes dirt and oil from clothes and skin.