In The Soap Micelles:a)The ionic end of soap is on the surface of the...
A “spherical aggregate of soap molecules” in a soap solution in water is called a “micelle”. In a soap micelle, the soap molecules are arranged readily with hydrocarbon ends directed towards the center and ionic ends directed outwards.
View all questions of this test
In The Soap Micelles:a)The ionic end of soap is on the surface of the...
The Soap Micelles
Explanation:
When soap is added to water, it forms clusters called micelles. These micelles are formed due to the unique structural properties of soap molecules.
Structure of Soap Molecules:
Soap molecules consist of two parts - a hydrophilic (water-loving) ionic end and a hydrophobic (water-hating) carbon chain.
Formation of Soap Micelles:
When soap is added to water, the hydrophilic ionic ends of the soap molecules are attracted to water molecules, while the hydrophobic carbon chains try to avoid contact with water. This leads to the formation of micelles.
Location of Ionic End and Carbon Chain:
In soap micelles, the ionic end of the soap molecule is on the surface of the cluster, while the carbon chain is in the interior of the cluster. This arrangement is energetically favorable as it allows the ionic end to interact with water molecules and the carbon chain to avoid contact with water.
Reason for the Ionic End on the Surface:
The ionic end of the soap molecule contains charged groups, such as carboxylate or sulfate. These charged groups are attracted to the polar water molecules, which makes the ionic end orient towards the water surface. This arrangement allows the ionic end to interact with water and helps in the solubilization of hydrophobic substances.
Reason for the Carbon Chain in the Interior:
The carbon chain of the soap molecule is nonpolar and hydrophobic. It tends to avoid contact with water and seeks to minimize its exposure to the aqueous environment. Therefore, the carbon chains of soap molecules aggregate in the interior of the micelle, away from water molecules.
Overall, the arrangement of soap micelles allows the hydrophilic ionic end to interact with water while keeping the hydrophobic carbon chains shielded from water. This enables soap to effectively solubilize and remove dirt, oil, and grease from surfaces when it is used for cleaning.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 10 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 10.