Phosphate Ions, PO₄^3-, Were Once Added to Detergents to Assist

question 128

Multiple Choice

Phosphate ions, PO₄^3-, were once added to detergents to assist in cleaning. What function did they serve?

• A)Phosphate ions were relatively good at removing grease by binding with large nonpolar molecules.
• B)Phosphate ions were large enough to bind with the large grime molecules and remove them.
• C)Phosphate ions would bind to and remove calcium ions, thus acting as a water softening agent.
• D)Phosphate ions would reduce the growth of algae in aquatic habitats receiving the waste water.

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