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This chemistry glossary offers definitions for terms which are commonly used in chemistry and chemical engineering. An engineering glossary is available, too. abrasive absolute error absolute pressure absolute temperature absolute uncertainty absolute zero absorbance absorption absorption cross section absorption spectroscopy absorption spectrum absorptivity accelerator accuracy acetate acid acid anhydride acid-base titration acid dissociation constant - Ka acidic solution actinides activated complex activation energy - Ea actual yield addition polymer addition reaction adhesive adsorption aerosol alchemy alcohol aldehyde alkali metal alkaline alkaline earth metal alkane alkene alkyl group alkyne allotrope alloy alpha particle alternating copolymer ammeter amorphous analytical chemistry anion androgen anisotropy annealing antiferromagnetism antioxidant aromatic compound aqueous solution Arrhenius rate equation astrochemistry atactic atom atomic mass atomic mass unit (amu) atomic num...

Soap is good at cleaning because it acts as an emulsifier, enabling one liquid to disperse into another immiscible liquid. While oil (which attracts dirt) doesn't naturally mix with water, soap can suspend oil/dirt in such a way that it can be removed. It's easy to demonstrate the action of an emulsifer. All you need are two immiscible liquids and a little dishwashing detergent or soap. Emulsifier Demo Materials water kerosene or oil dishwashing detergent or soap flask or clear glass Perform the Demonstration Add some kerosene or oil together with some water in a flask. Swirl the contents around to try to mix them. What happens? Add a squirt of dishwashing liquid. Swirl or shake the flask to mix the ingredients. How has the layer of kerosene or oil been changed? What could be easier, right?