Detergents vs. Soaps: Key Insights
Detergents vs. Soaps: Key Insights
Grupo 40
Products:
Soaps and detergents are both cleaning agents that are used to remove dirt, grease, and
oils from surfaces and fabric. They work by breaking down the bonds between the dirt and
Soaps are made by combining fats or oils with an alkali, such as sodium hydroxide.
The result is a salt of a fatty acid, which is the soap. Soaps have been used for centuries as a
cleaning agent and are still widely used today. They are gentle and effective, and are often
Detergents, on the other hand, are a more modern form of cleaning agent. They were
developed in response to the need for a cleaning agent that was more effective in hard water,
which interferes with the cleaning ability of soap. Detergents are made from a combination of
chemical compounds, including surfactants, which are substances that lower the surface
tension of water and help to remove dirt and oils. Detergents are more effective in hard water
than soaps and are often used for laundry and dishwashing.
There are some key differences between soaps and detergents. Soaps are
biodegradable, meaning that they break down into natural substances in the environment.
Detergents, however, are not biodegradable and can have a negative impact on the
environment if they are not disposed of properly. Detergents are also more effective at
removing oils and grease, while soaps are more effective at removing dirt. Additionally,
detergents can cause skin irritation, while soaps are generally gentler on the skin.
In conclusion, both soaps and detergents are effective cleaning agents that are used for
different purposes. Soaps are gentler and more biodegradable, while detergents are more
effective at removing oils and grease and are better suited for use in hard water.
The use of soap and detergents dates back to ancient civilizations, where various
forms of soaps were made from animal fat and ashes. The Babylonians are believed to be the
first to use soap for cleaning purposes, around 2800 BC. The ancient Egyptians also used a
combination of animal fat and ashes for bathing and washing clothes. In Europe,
soap-making became more widespread during the Roman Empire, and was used for personal
The industrial revolution of the 19th century marked a significant turning point in the
production of soap and detergents. New methods were developed for large-scale production,
and soap became more affordable and widely available. The invention of synthetic detergents
in the 20th century revolutionized the cleaning industry. Detergents are effective in removing
grease and oil, making them suitable for cleaning a wide range of surfaces, including clothes,
Soaps and detergents are important because they make our daily lives easier by
allowing us to clean effectively and efficiently. They play a crucial role in personal hygiene,
as they help to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria from our skin, preventing the spread of disease.
Soaps and detergents also play a vital role in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in
Examples of soaps include bar soap, liquid soap, and medicated soap. Detergents
include laundry detergents, dishwashing detergents, and all-purpose cleaners. Brands such as
Dove, Dial, and Lever are well-known manufacturers of soap, while Tide, Gain, and Ajax are
The history of soap and detergents dates back to ancient times, and they have since
become an essential part of our daily lives. They play a crucial role in maintaining personal
hygiene and cleanliness, and continue to evolve with new and improved formulas and
technology.
saponification, which is the process of converting fat or oil into soap. This reaction occurs
when a basic solution, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH), is
mixed with an acid, such as animal fat or vegetable oil. The reaction results in the formation
In the case of soap production, the reaction is carried out in large vats and involves
heating the mixture of fat and sodium hydroxide until the saponification reaction is complete.
The soap mixture is then cooled and allowed to harden, after which it is cut into bars and
packaged. Some soap makers add fragrances, colors, or other ingredients to enhance the
Synthetic detergents, on the other hand, are produced through a process called
sulfonation, which involves reacting a hydrocarbon with sulfuric acid to produce a detergent
molecule. The detergent molecule is then combined with other ingredients, such as builders,
to enhance its cleaning properties. The final product is then packaged and sold as laundry
It's worth noting that the production of detergents and soaps can have a negative
impact on the environment. Many detergents contain phosphates, which can cause water
pollution and harm aquatic life. To address this issue, many detergent manufacturers have
begun producing "green" or eco-friendly detergents that are made from biodegradable
ingredients and are free from phosphates and other harmful chemicals.
detergent. This reaction results in the formation of the final product, which is then packaged
and sold for consumer use. The production of detergents and soaps has evolved over time,
with many manufacturers now producing eco-friendly products to minimize their impact on
the environment.
Detergents and soaps work by surrounding and lifting dirt and oil from surfaces,
allowing them to be washed away. This process is called emulsification. Soaps are alkaline
and have a pH between 9 and 10, while detergents are slightly acidic and have a pH between
6 and 7. When a soap or detergent is mixed with water, it forms a solution that can dissolve
The mechanism by which detergents and soaps work is based on their molecular
structure. Soaps are composed of long chains of molecules called surfactants, which have
end of the soap molecule is attracted to grease and oil, while the hydrophilic end is attracted
to water. When the soap solution is applied to a dirty surface, the soap molecules surround
and lift the dirt and oil, allowing them to be washed away with water.
Detergents work in a similar way to soaps, but they are formulated with synthetic
surfactants that are more effective at removing grease and oil. Detergents also typically
contain builders, which help to soften hard water and enhance the cleaning power of the
detergent.
In addition to their cleaning properties, detergents and soaps also help to prevent
re-deposition of dirt and oil onto surfaces during the rinsing process. This is because the soap
or detergent molecules surround the dirt and oil particles, preventing them from redepositing
To wrap things up, detergents and soaps work by emulsifying dirt and oil, breaking them
down into smaller particles that can be washed away with water. Their effectiveness is due to
the hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties of their surfactant molecules, which allow them
to surround and lift dirt and oil. The addition of builders to detergents enhances their cleaning
power and helps to prevent re-deposition of dirt and oil during the rinsing process.
enzymes, and other ingredients that work together to remove dirt, grease, and other types of
soil from clothes. All Liquid Laundry Detergent is available in various formulas and scents to
cater to different laundry needs and preferences. It is designed for use in both standard and
high-efficiency washing machines and is available in various sizes and packaging options.
All Liquid Laundry Detergent is marketed as a gentle and effective alternative to traditional
laundry detergents, suitable for use on all types of fabrics, including delicate items. It is also
formulated to be free of dyes, fragrances, and other potentially irritating ingredients, making
dirt and stains from clothes during the washing process. It is formulated with surfactants,
enzymes, and other ingredients that work together to break down and remove dirt, grease, and
other types of soil. Tide Liquid Laundry Detergent is available in various scents and formulas
to cater to different laundry needs and preferences. It is designed for use in both standard and
high-efficiency washing machines and is available in various sizes and packaging options.
Tide Liquid Laundry Detergent is a trusted and widely used laundry detergent that is known
and free of harmful chemicals such as phosphates, chlorine, and petroleum-based ingredients.
Newen Detergent is designed to effectively remove dirt, grease, and other types of soil from
clothes while being gentle on both fabrics and the environment. It is available in various
scents and packaging options, including concentrated and unconcentrated formulas. Newen
detergents, making it a good choice for consumers who are conscious about reducing their
environmental impact. Additionally, it is also suitable for people with sensitive skin as it does
Most common raw materials and ingredients found in soaps and detergents:
Soaps and detergents are typically made from a combination of raw materials and
ingredients that provide the product with its cleaning properties and other characteristics,
such as lather, fragrance, and color. Some of the most common raw materials and ingredients
of fatty acid used will impact the properties of the soap, such as lather, moisturizing ability,
and hardness.
Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH): These are the base materials used
Surfactants: Synthetic detergents are made from surfactants, which are molecules that have
both hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties, allowing them to surround and lift dirt and oil.
Builders: Detergents often contain builders, which help to soften hard water and enhance the
cleaning power of the detergent. Some common builders include sodium carbonate, sodium
Enzymes: Enzymes are proteins that help to break down complex organic compounds, such
as starches and proteins, into smaller, more manageable molecules. Enzymes are often added
The environmental impact of these raw materials and ingredients can vary depending
on their source, manufacturing processes, and disposal methods. For example, the production
of sodium hydroxide can result in the release of toxic chlorine gas, while the use of
phosphates in detergents can contribute to water pollution. In addition, some surfactants can
be toxic to aquatic life and can persist in the environment for long periods of time.
To minimize the environmental impact of soaps and detergents, many manufacturers
have begun producing products made from biodegradable ingredients and are free from
phosphates and other harmful chemicals. Additionally, the use of environmentally friendly
disposal methods, such as wastewater treatment, can help to minimize the environmental
In summary, soaps and detergents are made from a combination of raw materials and
builders, and enzymes. The environmental impact of these materials and ingredients can vary
depending on their source, manufacturing processes, and disposal methods, and many
manufacturers are now producing environmentally friendly products to minimize their impact
on the environment.
Biodegradable and non-biodegradable products refer to the rate and manner in which
microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. This means that biodegradable products can be
broken down into natural substances, such as water, carbon dioxide, and biomass, within a
relatively short period of time. Examples of biodegradable products include food waste,
cannot be broken down by microorganisms. These products persist in the environment for a
long time and do not degrade, creating a significant environmental problem. Examples of
glass.
because it affects the way in which these products are managed and disposed of.
of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. On the other hand, non-biodegradable products
environment.
Overall, it may be said that biodegradable products are made of organic materials that
synthetic materials that persist in the environment for a long time and do not degrade. The
distinction between these two types of products is important because it affects the way in
which they are managed and disposed of, with biodegradable products being composted or
and disadvantages, which can impact both the environment and personal welfare.
Advantages of biodegradable cleaning products:
that can be broken down by microorganisms, reducing the amount of waste in landfills and
oceans. This helps to minimize the impact of cleaning products on the environment.
Safe for use: Biodegradable cleaning products are typically made from natural ingredients,
such as plant-based surfactants and essential oils, making them safer for use around people,
products, making them a good choice for those who want to reduce their environmental
costly.
Limited availability: Biodegradable cleaning products may not be readily available in all
biodegradable products, making them a more affordable option for many people.
Wide availability: Non-biodegradable cleaning products are widely available in stores and
materials that persist in the environment for a long time and do not degrade, contributing to
toxic chemicals that can be harmful to people, pets, and the environment if used improperly.
different advantages and disadvantages, which can impact both the environment and personal
welfare. Choosing biodegradable cleaning products can help to reduce the environmental
impact of cleaning, while also promoting personal health and safety. On the other hand,
non-biodegradable cleaning products are less expensive and widely available, but they can
the choice between biodegradable and non-biodegradable cleaning products should be based
Objective: To evaluate the cleaning performance of three different cleaning products based
Scientific question: What is the relationship between the concentration of detergent and the
Variables:
Hypothesis: If the concentration of detergent increases, then the cleaning performance will
improve because a higher concentration of detergent will lead to more effective cleaning.
● Low, medium, and high concentrations of detergent (prepared by diluting the cleaning
● Cleaning products should be used as per the instructions mentioned on their labels.
● The used cleaning solutions should be disposed of as per the instructions mentioned
on the label.
Experimental procedure:
1.- Prepare three different concentrations of detergent by diluting each cleaning product (A,
2.- Apply the same amount of three different stains (coffee, red wine, and oil) on three
3.- Clean each stain using a separate piece of cloth or paper with one of the three different
detergent concentrations (low, medium, high) and the same cleaning product (A, B, or C).
4.- Repeat the procedure three times, using different cloth or paper pieces, to get three sets of
5.- Measure the degree of stain removal and compare the results to determine the cleaning
performance.
Test 2: Cleaning Performance Based on Temperature
Objective: To evaluate the cleaning performance of three different cleaning products based
on different temperatures.
Scientific question: What is the relationship between the temperature and the cleaning
Variables:
Hypothesis: If the temperature of the cleaning solution increases, then the cleaning
performance will improve because higher temperatures increase the solubility and efficacy of
cleaning agents.
● The used cleaning solutions should be disposed of as per the instructions mentioned
on the label.
Experimental procedure:
1.- Prepare three different temperatures of cleaning solutions (cold, room temperature, and
hot) using the same concentration of detergent for each cleaning product (A, B, and C).
2.- Apply the same amount of three different stains (coffee, red wine, and oil)
Multicultural Approach
biodegradable products?
A: By our experiences we can affirm that the use of non-biodegradable and biodegradable
products can have different impacts on the environment. Non-biodegradable products, such
as plastic bags, take hundreds of years to break down and can harm wildlife and ecosystems.
On the other hand, biodegradable products, such as paper bags or biodegradable cleaning
products, break down more quickly and are less harmful to the environment. It is important to
consider the long-term effects of the products we use and to choose biodegradable options
A: We can relate this project to the SDG’s 3, 6, 12, 13, 14 and 15, all of these SDG’s seek to
fight against climate change by changing society into a more sustainable and environmentally
friendly place.
3.- What understanding and skills do I need to have or develop to propose a solution to the
A: The skills we need to developed are the understanding of how we damage the environment
in our daily life activities and what consequences this can bring to the future generations, it is
important to find a solution to this problem because climate change is already affecting our
planet in a critical way, by continuing this path us and the species we interact with will suffer
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sharing
Hot Test It was effective with all of It was more effective with oil It was effective with
them. and it was not effective with coffee and wine.
coffee.
Cold Test It all went wrong because None of the spots were able We were only able to
the spots were to go away, except for the oil. remove the oil, the
impregnated in the rest
clothes.
1.- We were able to identify a few tendencies, for example we identified that all 3 detergents
worked better when using them in a hot environment, because when temperature increases,
the surface tension decreases and the reduction in surface tension of water increases its
wettability, therefore it can easily wash out the dirt from the clothes and in a cold
environment it was harder, because the spots got impregnated into the clothes.
2.- We followed the instructions to make the experiment perfectly, therefore We didn’t make
3.- To conclude we were able to evaluate the cleaning performance of three different
cleaning products based on hot and cold temperatures and by concluding the experiment we
were able to confirm our hypothesis, which was that If the temperature of the cleaning
solution increases, then the cleaning performance will improve because higher temperatures
increase the solubility and efficacy of cleaning agents and we identified that ecological
detergents can work equally well or even better than non-biodegradable products, this is a
MULTICULTURAL APPROACH
Which steps are we taking as a team to ensure we achieve the project goals?
A: We follow all the experimental procedures and take care of how we do the experiment so
A: Even though we followed the instructions perfectly there's always a way to improve and in
this case the cleaness of our experiment. It wasn't the most attractive or spotless; it did
Xavier: Through the development of my project I learned and reinforced several skills. The
scientific method is formed by various processes; first of all you have to make an observation
or a question, in the case of our project, we asked ourselves what kind of detergent was better
and under what circumstances. Our hypothesis was that the cleaning performance of the
detergent would improve because higher temperatures increase the solubility and efficacy of
cleaning agents. After gathering information and experimenting with the detergents, we could
make our conclusion and finish the project. Using the scientific method in our project helped
us realize the project and made it easier for ourselves to conclude with it.
Diego: When I completed this project I learnt that even though some products claim to be
efficient and eco friendly, not all of them are as efficient as the rest of the products in the
market are. I used the scientific method, to comprehend why the results of the experiment
were as they turned out to be. And I realized that I constantly use the scientific method in my
Miguel: After completing this project I realized that dividing the experiment into different
stages and applying the scientific method really helped the project to get to a whole different
level . By doing this I was able to really comprehend why the experiment got to that result. I
learned that unconsciously I use the scientific method in my daily life, it helped me get a
deeper knowledge because following the steps makes the probability of committing a mistake
decrease a lot. To ensure safety and proper waste of disposal you need to make sure to have
an organized work environment and follow the instructions. I can use the knowledge i got
from this experiment by sharing which cleaner is more efficient and in which temperature
works best.
Nacho: I learned that the scientific method is useful to test experiments to get the hypothesis,
variables and results of the experiment. We can use the scientific method in our daily life to
solve problems without direct or simple answers. To ensure safety and proper waste disposal
in an experiment you should follow the safety terms included in the products you use to
dispose in a proper way. The way I can apply what I learn about this experiment is how
eco-friendly products can be as good as normal products, so we should use these products to
Figueroa: After concluding this experiment, we were able to identify that making a scientific
method in order to make an experiment is very important, due to the fact that it helps to solve
the problems that we can face in the process, it helps you to ensure your safety and it helps
us gain more knowledge from the experiment. Although it is also useful in our daily life to
solve problems that we face daily. We also were able to identify that eco-friendly products are
as good as non eco-friendly products, although eco-friendly products can still be improved.
Multicultural approach:
Nacho:
A: A good change in attitude could help our planet to decrease climate change but if we make
● What was the most significant takeaway of this project from a global perspective?
A: To see how well does eco-friendly products perform compared them normal products, so
we can realize that eco-friendly products are as good as other so we should use them to help
our environment.
● What future can I participate in to promote actions for solving global environmental
problems?
A: To start using less polluted products and to convince people to do the same to help our
environment.
Xavier:
○ Just changing our usual habits, like turning off the light or not using a lot of
water while taking a bath, and always making them, would help the
environment improve
● What was the most significant takeaway of this project from a global perspective?
● What future can I participate in to promote actions for solving global environmental
problems?
○ Keep making this type of projects to promote the use of ecological products
Miguel:
recycle all the plastic we use. If our actions continue the same way then our planet is only
What was the most significant takeaway of this project from a global perspective?
The most significant takeaway is to realize that the eco-friendly products work and how they
help the environment by getting rid of all the chemicals the other products have.
What future can I participate in to promote actions for solving the global environmenysl?
I can participate by using more eco-friendly products and also promoting them, this could
Diego A:
A: If people can change the way of thinking about more environmental eco- friendly
products, that would mean that the people would be able to use these products more often and
● What was the most significant takeaway of this project from a global perspective?
A: We were able to use eco-friendly products and also non-eco friendly, that we’ve used for
years.
● What future can I participate in to promote actions for solving global environmental
problems?
A: I can take part by always choosing products that always are more eco-friendly than the
rest.
Figueroa:
A: If people change their attitude and their actions into a more eco-friendly way it would
have a great and better impact on the environment, so we should change and start recycling,
● What was the most significant takeaway of this project from a global perspective?
A: The most significant takeaway from this project was that we were able to identify how
eco-friendly products are as useful as the non eco-friendly ones we’ve been using for years.
● What future can I participate in to promote actions for solving global environmental
problems?
A: I think that I should participate in campaigns that promote sustainable actions, that way we
can all help to solve the environmental problems we have around the world.
Video:
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