Detergents, typically sodium salts of sulphonic acids or ammonium salts with chlorides or bromides ions, have long hydrocarbon chains. The charged ends of these compounds do not form insoluble precipitates with calcium and magnesium ions, making them effective in hard water.
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Detergents overcome issues associated with hard water in cleansing agents due to their unique chemical structure. Detergents are typically sodium salts of sulphonic acids or ammonium salts with chlorides or bromides ions, featuring long hydrocarbon chains. Unlike soap, the charged ends of detergents do not form insoluble precipitates with calcium and magnesium ions in hard water. This ensures that detergents remain effective, producing lather and cleaning efficiently in hard water environments. Their versatility makes detergents a preferred choice in various cleansing products, including shampoos and laundry detergents, where hard water is commonly encountered.