The Chemistry of Soap: Reactions That Clean

Soap is made through saponification, a reaction between fats and a strong base.
This reaction produces soap molecules and glycerol.
Soap molecules have two ends: a hydrophilic “head” and a hydrophobic “tail.”
The hydrophobic tails attach to grease and oils, breaking them apart.
The hydrophilic heads stay in water, carrying dirt away when rinsed.
Micelles—tiny soap clusters—trap oils and make them washable.
Hard water reduces soap’s effectiveness by forming scum with minerals.
Modern detergents were created to solve soap’s hard-water problem.
Soap not only cleans but also disrupts microbes’ protective membranes.
For centuries, soap has combined chemistry and hygiene to keep us healthy.