Surface active agent is a chemical that can reduce liquid surface tension. They are composed of a hydrophilic (like water) head and a hydrophobic (do not like water) tail. During the pollution process, the hydrophobic tail of the surfactant will be adsorbed to the surface of dirt, while the hydrophilic head interacts with water molecules.
When the surfactant is mixed with water, they are scattered in water to form a tiny beam structure. These hinges are composed of the head of the surfactant towards the water, and the tail facing dirt. The formation of beam reduces the surface tension of the liquid, making it easier for water to contact the surface of dirt.
In addition, surfactants have emulsification. Emulse is a process of mixing the two interabled liquids to form a emulsion. The hydrophobic tail of the surfactant can interact with hydrophobic substances such as oil and dirt, so that they are scattered in the water to form a stable emulsion. In this way, dirt can be wrapped in water, and it is easier to be cleaned.
In summary, the surfactant achieves the principle of decontamination by reducing the surface tension of liquid on the surface tension of liquid, forming a beam structure and emulsification effect.