StudyGPT Just Leveled Up – Say Hello to Knowee! 🚀
Knowee
Questions
Features
Study Tools

Name the main constituents of a typical detergent. Which one of theseconstituents contributes substantially to eutrophication

Question

🧐 Not the exact question you are looking for?Go ask a question

Solution

A typical detergent consists of several main constituents, including:

  1. Surfactants: These are the main cleaning ingredient in a detergent. They work by reducing the surface tension of water, making it less likely to stick to itself and more able to interact with oil and grease.

  2. Builders: These are water softeners that are used to enhance the efficiency of the surfactant. They do this by binding to calcium and magnesium ions in the water, which would otherwise interfere with the surfactant.

  3. Bleaches: These are used to remove stains and whiten clothes.

  4. Enzymes: These are used to break down stains and dirt, making them easier to remove.

  5. Fillers: These are used to bulk up the product and dilute the detergents, making them safer to use.

  6. Fragrances and dyes: These are used to give the detergent its distinctive smell and color.

Out of these constituents, it is the phosphates in the builders that contribute substantially to eutrophication. When these phosphates are released into bodies of water, they can promote excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants, which can deplete the water's oxygen supply and harm other aquatic life.

This problem has been solved

Upgrade your grade with Knowee

Get personalized homework help. Review tough concepts in more detail, or go deeper into your topic by exploring other relevant questions.