What is the effect of detergent on surface tension?

 

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Q&A: The Effect of Detergent on Surface Tension

Q: What is the effect of detergent on surface tension?

A: Detergents are substances that are able to reduce the surface tension of water. Surface tension refers to the property of the surface of a liquid that allows it to resist an external force. When detergent is added to water, it disrupts the hydrogen bonds between water molecules at the surface, causing the surface tension to decrease.

Q: How does detergent reduce surface tension?

A: Detergents are made up of molecules that have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) end and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) end. When detergent is added to water, the hydrophobic ends of the detergent molecules are attracted to the air-water interface, while the hydrophilic ends are attracted to the water molecules. This disrupts the cohesive forces between water molecules and lowers the surface tension.

Q: What are the practical applications of reducing surface tension with detergent?

A: The ability of detergents to reduce surface tension has many practical applications. For example, in cleaning products, detergents help to break down grease and dirt by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread more easily and penetrate small crevices. In the pharmaceutical industry, detergents are used to disrupt the cell membranes of bacteria, making them more susceptible to antibiotics. Additionally, detergents are used in the food industry to emulsify fats and oils, allowing them to mix with water.In conclusion, detergent reduces surface tension by disrupting the hydrogen bonds between water molecules at the surface. This property of detergents has a wide range of practical applications in industries such as cleaning, pharmaceuticals, and food.

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