What is the main purpose of a "builder" in a detergent?

• A. To make the detergent smell pleasant
• B. To create bubbles during washing
• C. To enhance cleaning effectiveness
• D. To reduce the cost of production

Answer: (C)

The main purpose of a "builder" in a detergent is to enhance cleaning effectiveness. Builders work by softening water, which helps to improve the performance of the surfactants in the detergent. In hard water, calcium and magnesium ions can interfere with the cleaning action of the surfactants. By binding to these ions, builders allow the surfactants to work more effectively at removing dirt and stains from fabrics and surfaces.

While the other options hint at important aspects of detergents, they do not capture the primary role of builders. The pleasant smell of a detergent is typically achieved through fragrance additives, and bubble formation is mainly due to surfactants that create foam but is not the direct result of builders. As for cost reduction, while builders may play a role in the overall formulation and price strategy of a product, that is not their functional purpose within the detergent. Ultimately, the pivotal role of builders is their ability to enhance the cleanliness properties of the detergent, making them essential for effective washing and cleaning tasks.