Question

What are anionic detergents? Give an example.

Answer 1

Hint - Anionic detergents are the ones that contain (-) charge on their hydrophilic end which helps the surfactant molecule lift & suspend in micelles. Hence, they are able to attack a broad range of soils.

Complete step-by-step answer:
In simple words, the term "anionic detergent" can be defined as -
They are the sodium salts of the long chain sulfonated alcohols or hydrocarbons.
- it is a synthetic detergent in which a lipophilic hydrocarbon group molecule is an anion.
Alkyl hydrogen sulphate prepared by treating the long chain alcohols with concentrated sulphuric acid are neutralized with alkali to form anionic detergent.
Some of the uses of Anionic detergents are-
- They are used in laundry detergents
- They are also used in electric dishwashing detergents.
Some of the examples of Anionic detergents are-
Sodium stearyl sulphate $({C_{18}}{H_{37}}Na{O_4}S)$,
Sodium lauryl sulphate $(C{H_3}{\left( {C{H_2}} \right)_{10}}C{H_2}{\left( {OC{H_2}C{H_2}} \right)_n}OS{O_3}Na)$, etc.
Sodium lauryl sulphate, derived from palm kernel oil, is an anionic detergent used in the preparation of many personal care products such as shampoos and soaps as it is very cheap and an effective foaming agent. Also used in most cosmetic and beauty care products as they have excellent cleaning and emulsifying properties. The formula is a highly effective anionic surfactant used in the process of removing oily stains and residues.

Note - Some studies have found it causing skin dis-comfort which can result in the alteration of skin barrier function, can also lead to water loss and lead to dry skin.