Which acid is used in non-ionic detergent reactions to improve cleaning qualities and thicken detergents?

Correct option is A

Correct Answer: (a) Stearic acid

Explanation:

• Stearic acid is commonly used in the formulation of non-ionic detergents.
• It helps to improve cleaning qualities by acting as a surfactant enhancer and also serves as a thickening agent in detergent formulations.
• This makes detergents more effective and stable for household and industrial cleaning.

Information Booster:

• Stearic acid is a long-chain saturated fatty acid (C₁₈H₃₆O₂).
• Widely used in soaps, cosmetics, and detergents as a surfactant and emulsifier.
• It also gives detergents a creamy texture and enhances foam stability.
• Derived mainly from animal fats and vegetable oils.
• In detergents, it reduces hardness effects of water, improving cleaning efficiency.

Additional Knowledge:

• Barbituric acid: A derivative used in pharmaceuticals (barbiturates), not detergents.
• Propanoic acid: A short-chain carboxylic acid used as a food preservative, not for thickening detergents.
• Oxalic acid: A strong organic acid used as a cleaning/bleaching agent, but not for thickening or improving non-ionic detergents.