What is a detergent primarily composed of?

• A. Fats and oils
• B. Surface wetting agents and builders
• C. Alcohol and bleach
• D. Acids and bases

Answer: (B)

The primary composition of a detergent includes surface wetting agents and builders. Surface wetting agents, also known as surfactants, play a crucial role in reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread more easily and penetrate surfaces or fabrics to remove dirt and stains. They help to lift soils away from materials, making cleaning more effective.

Builders are substances that enhance the performance of surfactants by softening water and helping to suspend dirt particles. This combination allows detergents to work efficiently across various applications, from household cleaning to surgical instrument sterilization, where thorough cleaning is essential for maintaining instrument integrity and preventing infection.

Understanding this composition is important, particularly in fields such as surgical instrument management, where the effectiveness of cleaning agents is paramount for patient safety and instrument longevity.