Why is soap ineffective in hard water

The carboxylate end is hydrophilic in nature, which means it is attracted to water molecules while the hydrocarbon end is attracted to oil, and since it is hydrophobic in nature, it repels water.

While washing with soap and water, the hydrophilic ends of soap molecules stick out into the water and the hydrophobic ends attach to oil. Soap molecules break down oil into smaller drops so they can be suspended in water.

Soap works by pulling dirt and grease from your body into the water. The questions posted on the site are solely user generated, Doubtnut has no ownership or control over the nature and content of those questions. Doubtnut is not responsible for any discrepancies concerning the duplicity of content over those questions. Study Materials. Why use Doubtnut? Instant Video Solutions. Request OTP. Question :. Answer :. Why soap is ineffective with hard water.

Download APP. About SnapSolve. Join Now. Question Physics. Why are soaps ineffective in hard water? Hard water contains salts of Ca and Mg. Soap molecule reacts with these salts to produce white precipitate called scum, which is insoluble in water and the cleansing action of soap becomes ineffective.

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