Phosphate ions, $\mathrm { PO } _ { 4 }$ ^3-,were once added to detergents to assist in cleaning.What function did they serve? A)Phosphate ions were relatively good at removing grease by binding with large nonpolar molecules. B)Phosphate ions were large enough to bind with the large grime molecules and remove them. C)Phosphate ions would bind to and remove calcium ions,thus acting as a water softening agent. D)Phosphate ions would reduce the growth of algae in aquatic habitats receiving the wastewater.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Phosphate ions were added to detergents primarily because they have the ability to bind to calcium ions, which are often present in "hard" water. By removing calcium ions, phosphates act as water softeners, improving the effectiveness of detergents by preventing the calcium from interfering with the cleaning process.

Phosphate Ions PO4\mathrm { PO } _ { 4 }PO4​ 3-,were Once Added to Detergents to Assist in Cleaning

Phosphate Ions $\mathrm { PO } _ { 4 }$ ^3-,were Once Added to Detergents to Assist in Cleaning