- Na [C^17H^35CO^2]
What is unique about the polarity(charge characteristics) of soap?
- The cleansing of soap is determined both by its polar and non-polar structures in conjunction with an application of solubility principles. The hydrocarbon chain is non-polar and the hydrophobic chain (repelled by water) is polar. And the "salt" end of the soap molecule is hydrophilic (water soluble). Water alone is not able to penetrate grease or oil because they are of opposite polarity.
How does soap work?
- Long hydrocarbon chains of stearate anions dissolve oil and grease. The hydrocarbon chains strongly attract oil breaking up spots into small droplets. The "tails" of many soap anions are needed to remove each oil droplet.
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