What molecular features are required for soap to properly dissolve grease and oil?
A)The molecule must be large.
B)The molecule must contain a polar head.
C)The molecule must contain a non-polar tail.
D)The molecule must contain both a polar head and a non-polar tail.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Soap molecules have a polar head (which interacts with water) and a non-polar tail (which interacts with grease and oil). This allows the soap to emulsify, or surround and break apart, the grease and oil molecules, making them easier to wash away with water. A large molecule (choice A) is not necessary for this process.

What Molecular Features Are Required for Soap to Properly Dissolve