Correct option is A
✅ (a)
Calcium and Magnesium: • Hardness of water is primarily caused by dissolved calcium (Ca²⁺) and magnesium (Mg²⁺) salts. • These ions originate from limestone, gypsum, and dolomite rocks. • They form insoluble salts with soap, reducing its cleaning power.
❌ (b)
Calcium and Potassium: • Potassium is not typically responsible for water hardness.
❌ (c)
Potassium and Magnesium: • Potassium does not contribute significantly to hardness.
❌ (d)
Sodium and Calcium: • Sodium increases water salinity, not hardness.