Hard water does not lather well with soap because it forms: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Hard water does not lather well with soap because it forms:
A. Soluble sodium salts
B. Foam
C. Insoluble calcium and magnesium soap (scum)
D. Alkaline solution
Answer: Option C
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Soap (sodium/potassium salts of long-chain fatty acids) reacts with Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ ions in hard water to form insoluble calcium/magnesium salts (scum), which precipitates and does not lather. This wastes soap. Reaction: 2RCOONa + Ca²⁺ → (RCOO)₂Ca↓ + 2Na⁺. Detergents do not form scum because their calcium salts are soluble. Hardness is measured in ppm of CaCO₃.

Discuss this Question (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to start the discussion!

Practice More chemistry Questions

Question #1
The metal present in chlorophyll is:
A. Magnesium
B. Calcium
C. Sodium
D. Iron

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
Chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants, contains a magnesium ion (Mg²⁺) at the center of the porphyrin ring. It's essential for photosynthesis. Haemoglobin in blood contains iron. Calcium is in bones. Sodium is in body fluids.

This question belongs to: Science chemistry
Question #2
Thermal decomposition of limestone produces:
A. CaO and CO
B. Ca and CO₂
C. Ca(OH)₂ and CO₂
D. CaO and CO₂

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Limestone is CaCO₃. On strong heating, it decomposes to calcium oxide (quicklime) and carbon dioxide: CaCO₃ → CaO + CO₂. This is a decomposition reaction used in cement and lime manufacturing. CaO is used in building and as a drying agent.

This question belongs to: Science chemistry
Question #3
Organic fertilizers improve soil health primarily by:
A. Rapidly releasing nitrogen
B. Killing weeds
C. Increasing organic matter and microbial activity
D. Adding synthetic chemicals

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
Organic fertilizers (compost, manure, bone meal) add humus, improving soil structure, water retention, and aeration. They support beneficial microorganisms that slowly decompose organic matter, releasing nutrients gradually. Unlike synthetic fertilizers, they do not cause sudden nutrient spikes or soil acidification. Biofertilizers like Rhizobium fix nitrogen. Organic farming emphasizes sustainability and reduced chemical inputs.

This question belongs to: Science chemistry