Soap and detergent molecules have a long, hydrophobic tail and a polar, hydrophilic head. They are sometimes referred to as bridge molecules because they allow oils and fats to be suspended and dissolved in water (which they otherwise would not be able to do). Imagine that you are using soap to wash away dirt that is being held against your skin in an oily film.
-In this scenario, how are the soap, dirt/oil, and water arranged at the molecular level?
A) The soap molecules encase the dirt/oil within a small droplet that has a hydrophilic exterior and a hydrophobic interior.
B) Water and dirt/oil form covalent bonds inside a small droplet that has a soap -based outer membrane.
C) The soap is converted into a lipid that binds to the dirt/oil while repelling the water.
D) The soap molecules encase the dirt/oil within a small droplet that has a hydrophobic exterior and a hydrophilic interior.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Soap molecules form structures called micelles around dirt/oil. The hydrophobic tails of the soap molecules face inward, trapping the dirt/oil, while the hydrophilic heads face outward, allowing the droplet to be washed away by water.

Soap and Detergent Molecules Have a Long, Hydrophobic Tail and a Polar