Why does micelle formation take place wh | Class 10 Science Chapter Carbon and Its Compound, Carbon and Its Compound NCERT Solutions

Current NCERT chapter

Academic session 2026-27, Chapter 4 in the current curriculum.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science - Chapter Carbon and Its Compound. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 6, Question 8:

Why does micelle formation take place when soap is added to water? Will a micelle be formed in other solvents such as ethanol also?

. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 8:

Why does micelle formation take place when soap is added to water? Will a micelle be formed in other solvents such as ethanol also?

Answer:

A soap is a sodium or potassium salt of long chain carboxylic acids. It has one polar end and one non-polar end. The polar end is hydrophilic in nature which is attracted towards water. The non-polar end is hydrophobic but lipophilic, i.e., it is attracted towards hydrocarbons. When soap is added to water, soap molecules arrange themselves in a cluster, the non-polar portion out of water such that the non-polar ends are in the interior of the cluster attached with dirt and the polar ends are on the surface of the cluster. Since the dirt present on clothes is oily in nature and insoluble in water, the hydrophobic ends of the clusters attach themselves to the dirt. This cluster of soap molecule formation in which the dirt is entrapped is called micelles.

  

Micelle formation does not occur in alcohol because the alkyl chain of soap becomes soluble in alcohol.


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Carbon and Its Compound.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 6 , Question 8: Why does micelle formation take place when soap is added to water? Will a micelle be formed in other....

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