Question

Which from following statements is correct regarding a detergent sodium lauryl sulphate?

Options

• It is anionic detergent and is used in toothpaste.

• It is cationic detergent and is used as household detergent.

• It is cationic detergent and is used as hair conditioner.

• It is an ether and used as liquid detergent.

Answer 1

It is anionic detergent and is used in toothpaste.

Explanation:

Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) has the structure CH₃(CH₂)₁₁OSO₃⁻Na⁺. On ionisation in water, it releases a negatively charged (anionic) hydrophilic head , making it an anionic detergent. It is widely used in toothpaste, shampoos, and cosmetics as a foaming/cleansing agent.