How does water surface tension vary upon addition of soap or detergent...?

1 Answer
anor277
Dec 18, 2017

The surface tension of water is MARKEDLY REDUCED by the addition of soap and detergent.

Explanation:

And this can be demonstrated by adding talcum powder to a beaker of water; the surface tension of the water will support some of the powder; I have seen an old-fashioned razor blade so supported. Add a surfactant, i.e. a few drops of detergent, and the surface tension is REDUCED....and whatever is suspended on the meniscus drops to the bottom....

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