Why does the soap wash? Product Features

There are many different legends about how soap appeared. People used them about six thousand years ago. Then it was made from the fats of plants and animals. For many centuries, its composition, of course, constantly changed. A frequently asked question about why soap washes, has not disappeared.

The main function of the product is to clean various surfaces from dirt. And he copes with it perfectly. So all the same, why does soap wash? Let's try to understand.

Why does the soap wash? What is his secret?

Let's figure it out. So, why does the soap wash? The secret of it, as well as other detergents, which are related to surface-active substances, is to reduce the surface tension of water. This enhances its detergent properties. Soap foam consists of a huge number of soap bubbles with a water shell. To these very bubbles stick particles of soot, dust and dirt. And foam under the stream of water is very easy to wash off.

Surface-active substances (more precisely, their molecules) are located on the boundary surface so that the hydrophilic groups are directed directly into the water, and the hydrophobic groups are, on the contrary, pushed out of it. Thus, the water surface is covered with a peculiar fence, consisting of the above molecules.

Such a water surface has a lower surface tension. This, in turn, helps complete and rapid wetting of contaminated surfaces. The particle coated with surfactants is easily separated from the tissue and leaves in solution.

In general, soap particles have enveloping properties that lead to the formation of emulsions of a variety of contaminants and prevent their deposition on the surface repeatedly. They also keep insoluble particles in the suspension. Because they are so easily removed with water.

Excellent effect at low cost

However, for most people it is not so important why soap washes. The main thing is that a person is accustomed to cleanliness and accuracy. In principle, in order to get rid of dirt, it is enough ordinary soap. Achieving an excellent effect at a low cost, of course, such a product can remain content. The action, as mentioned above, is based on a decrease in the surface tension of water and the strengthening of the detergent.

Case in composition

Let's pay attention to one more thing. On the question of why soap washes the hands, a direct answer can give its composition. The fact that it includes sodium stearate - a substance that can dissolve sebum, which is formed on the surface of the skin. In addition, the stuck dirt is washed off. The more alkaline reaction occurs, the better the dirt is removed. Although because of alkali, the skin dries noticeably. Therefore, manufacturers add to the soap all kinds of additives, softening it, giving it color and smell. Remember, for example, about glycerin. It allows you to achieve a mitigating effect. Some other additives, in general, allow the soap to become curative. For today, the choice is great enough - you can choose exactly what you need without much difficulty.

Better than other substances

And finally. Why soap is better than other detergents? Pick up a simple soot. Try to wash it. Will not work. Add soap - your hands will immediately become clean. The secret lies in soapy foam. More precisely, in her small, bright bubbles. The composition of soap includes natural fat and caustic soda. Connecting, they create a soapy mass containing a large number of bubbles, to which particles of dirt adhere and are washed off with water.

In general, soap washes hands and various surfaces much better than other means do. Its composition and properties allow you to cope with all kinds of pollution without much difficulty. At the same time about the big expenses you can not worry at all.