Action of soap is due to emulsification | Class 12 Chemistry Chapter Surface Chemistry, Surface Chemistry NCERT Solutions

Previous / historical NCERT chapter

This chapter belongs to a previous NCERT/CBSE curriculum and is not part of the current 2026-27 chapter list. Removed in 2022-23.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Chemistry - Chapter Surface Chemistry. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 2, Question 18:

Action of soap is due to emulsification and micelle formation. Comment.

. 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 18:

Action of soap is due to emulsification and micelle formation. Comment.

Answer:

The cleansing action of soap is due to emulsification and micelle formation. Soaps are basically sodium and potassium salts of long chain fatty acids, R-COO-Na+. The end of the molecule to which the sodium is attached is polar in nature, while the alkyl-end is non-polar. Thus, a soap molecule contains a hydrophilic (polar) and a hydrophobic (non-polar) part.

When soap is added to water containing dirt, the soap molecules surround the dirt particles in such a manner that their hydrophobic parts get attached to the dirt molecule and the hydrophilic parts point away from the dirt molecule. This is known as micelle formation. Thus, we can say that the polar group dissolves in water while the non-polar group dissolves in the dirt particle. Now, as these micelles are negatively charged, they do not coalesce and a stable emulsion is formed.


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 Surface Chemistry.
  • 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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Comments

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  • Jun 10, 2020

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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Chemistry - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 2 , Question 18: Action of soap is due to emulsification and micelle formation. Comment.....

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