Soaps

Definition

Soaps are chemical agents used to remove dirt, oils, and microorganisms from surfaces. They function primarily by emulsifying fats and oils, allowing them to be washed away with water.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Soaps work by disrupting the lipid membranes of certain microorganisms, aiding in their removal.
2. They do not kill bacteria directly but help in physically removing them from surfaces.
3. Soaps are effective against a wide range of microbes but are less effective against spores and non-enveloped viruses.
4. The mechanical action of scrubbing while using soap is crucial for its effectiveness in microbial removal.
5. Antibacterial soaps contain additional chemical agents designed to kill or inhibit bacterial growth.

Review Questions

• How do soaps aid in the removal of microorganisms?
• Why is the mechanical action of scrubbing important when using soap?
• What additional ingredients might be found in antibacterial soaps compared to regular soaps?

Related terms

Detergents: Surfactants that lower surface tension between two substances, often more effective than soap at cleaning under various conditions.

Disinfectants:

Chemical agents used to kill or inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms on inanimate objects.

Antiseptics:

Chemical agents applied to living tissues to reduce the possibility of infection, sepsis, or putrefaction.