Which of the following ions interfere(s) with the action of detergents in hard water? A) Ca²⁺ B) Na⁺ C) Mg²⁺ D) Na⁺, Ca²⁺, and Mg²⁺ E) Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) ions interfere with the action of detergents in hard water by forming insoluble compounds with the soap or detergent. These compounds reduce the effectiveness of the detergent in cleaning. Sodium (Na+) ions do not have the same interfering effect as calcium and magnesium ions, so option B can be eliminated. Option A includes only calcium ions, while option C includes only magnesium ions. Therefore, the best choice is E, which includes both calcium and magnesium ions.

Which of the Following Ions Interfere(s) with the Action of Detergents