For soap to remove and dissolve oil in water, what molecular features are needed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For soap to remove and dissolve oil in water, it must contain both polar and nonpolar ends. The polar end of the soap molecule will interact with water, while the nonpolar end will interact with oil, allowing it to be dissolved in water. Therefore, option D, "Both A and C," which includes both a polar and nonpolar end, is the correct answer. Option A alone, polar end only, is not sufficient because it will not interact with oil. Option B, containing oxygen atoms, is not essential, as there are non-oxygen-containing molecules that can also act as surfactants. Option C alone, nonpolar end only, is also not sufficient because it will not interact with water. Therefore, the correct answer is D, as it includes both the necessary polar and nonpolar ends.

For Soap to Remove and Dissolve Oil in Water, What