Online Smu Natural Science

OBAC101: Natural Science
BACHELOR OF ARTS
SEMESTER 1
OBAC101
NATURAL SCIENCE
Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 1
Unit 1
Chemicals in Household Products
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SL Fig No / Table SAQ /
Topic Page No
No / Graph Activity
1 Introduction - -
3
1.1 Objectives - -
2 Importance Of Chemistry And Chemicals In - 1 4-6

Everyday Life
3 Chemicals Found In Household Products: Their 1 2, 3, 4, 5
Chemical Makeup And Uses
3.1 Cleansing Agents - -
3.2 Solvents, Paints and Waxes - -
3.3 Chemicals Involved in Cosmetics - -
3.4 Shampoos and Conditioners - - 7 - 33
3.5 Deodorants and Antiperspirants - -
3.6 Disinfectants - -
3.7 Insect Repellants - -
3.8 Air Fresheners - -
3.9 Bleach - -
4 Summary - - 34 - 36
5 Glossary - - 37
6 Terminal Questions - - 38
7 Answers - -
7.1 Self-Assessment Questions - - 39 - 40
7.2 Terminal Questions - -
8 References - - 41

1. INTRODUCTION
The non-food compounds used in domestic items have wide-ranging applications in people's daily
life. These are various kinds of consumer goods used for cleaning, cooking, household
management, pest control, and general hygiene purposes. Food additives are not included in this
category, but store additives in general, such as stabilisers and colouring agents, as well as some
chemicals found in washing powder and detergents are included. Some of these compounds are
irritants, can trigger allergies and can have negative environmental effects. Household garbage
that cannot be composted and the chemicals contained in household products have a number of
negative ecological effects and can be poisonous when ingested. They may contain corrosive or
flammable substances. In this unit, we will discuss the chemical makeup and the uses of the
chemicals found in household products.
1.1. Objectives
After going through this unit, you should be able to:
Explain the importance of chemistry and chemicals in everyday life
Describe the chemical composition of various kinds of chemicals used in household products
Discuss the harmful effects of the chemicals present in household products

2. IMPORTANCE OF CHEMISTRY AND CHEMICALS

IN EVERYDAY LIFE
Chemistry is the study of change in colour, shape and size when a substance reacts with another
substance. The importance of chemistry and chemicals in everyday life can be understood as:
• Chemical reactions occur in our food and the medications we consume.
• It can assist in making decisions for a variety of tasks, such as watering plants according to
the seasons, setting the right temperature for baking, choosing the proper medication for
acidity, applying a skin cream, etc.
• It can help in selecting the elements that are important for our health. For example, some
people may need additional doses of Vitamin B complex than others.
The foundation of chemistry is firmly rooted in our lives. It is sometimes difficult to see how tightly
it is woven into other processes. We will now list a few instances that illustrate how chemistry
plays a vital part in our daily life.
1. Colour change in the leaves. Plant life is significantly influenced by chemistry. Complex
chemical reactions are involved in the process by which plants make their food, known as
photosynthesis. The pigment chlorophyll gives the leaves their green colour; when it is absent,
the leaves take on a pale yellow hue.
2. Digestion of food. Numerous chemical processes occur from chewing to digestion of food.
HCl (Hydrochloric Acid), which is secreted by the stomach walls, is mixed with the meal once
it reaches the stomach. As a result, it ranks among the most prevalent applications of
chemistry in daily life.
3. Common Salt. Salt is a crucial component of cooking. Its scientific name is sodium chloride
(NaCl), and besides flavouring food, it also serves as a preservative.
4. Ice floats on water. Ice always floats when we add it to a glass of soda or water. This is
because of the presence of hydrogen bonds between the components of water, which lowers
the density of water in solid form as against liquid form.
5. Eyes tearing up as the onion is being chopped. Onions produce the chemical irritant
known as syn-Propanethial-S-oxide. It stimulates the eyes' lachrymal glands which causes
them to water.

6. Sunscreen Creams. It is a crucial cosmetic that protects our skin from damaging UV
radiation and maintains our natural complexion. Sunscreen cream contains a number of
organic and inorganic compounds, including TiO2, that block the sun's rays and stop them
from penetrating deeper layers of skin.
7. Medicines. Medicines are now a crucial component of our well being. For every ailment, we
require a unique medication. This is due to the fact that every disease involves a unique
biological or chemical reaction, necessitating the employment of various substances to aid
in the patient's recovery.
8. Chemistry in Food. Chemicals are the fundamental components of any food item. All food,
including the healthy and frequently desired carbohydrates, vitamins, fats, proteins, and fibre,
are composed of chemical molecules. Chemicals play a big part in how food is grown and
stored. Food may now be kept fresher for longer by using chemicals used in food
preservation. Chemistry has provided the world with necessary fertilisers, herbicides,
insecticides, and fungicides, as well as food seasoning cans and dietary supplements of
healthy and nutrient-dense crops, fruits, and vegetables. Ammonium sulphate, calcium
superphosphate, sodium nitrate, and urea are a few important fertilisers.
The following substances are frequently found in food:
• Colouring substances
• Synthetic preservatives
• Stabilisers for flow
• A glueing agent
• Synthetic sweetener
• Antioxidants
• Minerals
• Vitamins
9. Cosmetic Chemistry. Talcum powder, lotions, scents, and a variety of other cosmetic
products are commonly used by humans. Whether designed for babies or adults, every
cosmetic product contains chemical components. Our skin's pH needs to be managed in
order to maintain its health and get rid of unwanted scars. Cosmetics contain the following
chemical categories.

• Emulsifiers: These increase the stability of the emulsion. For instance, potassium cetyl
sulphate.
• Preservatives: These are additives that extend the shelf life of cosmetics. Examples
include benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid.
• Thickeners provide a pleasant consistency. Two examples are cetyl alcohol and
stearic acid.
• Emollients inhibit water loss from the skin, thus softening it. For instance, glycerine,
propylene glycol.
• Shiners and Glimmer: Examples of shiners and glimmers include mica and bismuth
oxy chloride.
10. Green Chemistry. By observing, maintaining, and enhancing the habitats in which we live,
such as the air, water, and soil, this field of chemistry contributes to environmental
preservation. In order to make sure that all environmental contamination is evaluated and
maintained from deteriorating, a number of strategies and procedures have been devised.
To make the air cleaner, numerous non-polluting fuels and materials that might swiftly absorb
airborne contaminants are being researched and tested. A prime illustration of this is the
removal of CFC from refrigerators. Chemistry offers a thorough understanding of pollutants
for analysing health effects, controlling emissions, and creating technology for reducing
pollution. Regular soil and water contamination tests are conducted using chemistry
principles in order to devise long-term preventative measures for ecological balance and
human health.
SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS - 1
1. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

(a) The pigment _____________ gives the leaves their green colour.
(b) Scientific name of __________ is sodium chloride (NaCl) which also acts as a
preservative.
2. State whether the following statements are true or false.
(a) Hydrochloric Acid is secreted by the stomach walls.
(b) Yellow chemistry contributes to environmental preservation.

3. CHEMICALS FOUND IN HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS:

THEIR CHEMICAL MAKEUP AND USES
Household products are non-food substances that are often used and stocked in and around a
typical home. They are specifically made to help with cleaning, insect control, and general hygiene.
Let us discuss the chemicals found in various household products along with their chemical
makeup and uses.
3.1. Cleansing Agents

Soaps and artificial detergents are the cleaning agents that are most frequently utilized. These
enhance the ability of water to clean. These aid in removing fats that frequently bind materials to
fabrics.
1. Soaps for Personal Cleanliness
Soaps are the salts of fatty acids that are utilised in a number of lubricating and cleaning
works. Soaps are surfactants that are frequently used in homes for washing, bathing, and
other housekeeping tasks. Soaps are employed in industrial contexts as thickeners, lubricant
components, and catalyst precursors.
Soap solubilizes dirt and debris when used for cleaning, allowing it to be removed from the
item being cleaned. When used as a surfactant in hand washing, soap kills bacteria by
disrupting their lipid bilayer membranes and denaturing their proteins. Additionally, it
emulsifies oils so that they can be removed by flowing water.
Saponification, the hydrolysis of fats and oils in the presence of a base, is a process that is
used to make soap. The reaction used to make soap can be visualised as follows:
O
||
CH2 – O – C – C17H35 C H2 – OH
O
| || |
CH – O – C – C17H35 + 3NaOH 3C17H 35COONa + CH – OH
| O |
||
CH2 – O – C – C17H35 C H2 – OH
Glycerol ester Sodium Sodium Glycerol
or stearic acid (Fat) hydroxide stearate (soap) (or Glycerine)

In this reaction, esters of fatty acids are hydrolysed and the soap obtained remains in colloidal
form. It is precipitated from the solution by adding sodium chloride. The solution left after removing
the soap contains glycerol, which can be recovered by fractional distillation. Only sodium and
potassium soaps are soluble in water and used for cleaning. Generally, potassium soaps are softer
to the skin than sodium soaps. These can be prepared using potassium hydroxide solution instead
of sodium hydroxide.
Types of Soaps
The majority of soaps are created by heating fats or oils with the appropriate soluble hydroxide.
Different raw materials are used to create variations.
i. Toilet Soaps: Better grades of fats and oils are used to produce toilet soap, and extra care
is taken to remove excess alkali. These are enhanced with colours and fragrances to make
them more appealing.
ii. Soaps that float in water are made by beating microscopic air bubbles prior to their
hardening. By dissolving the soap in ethanol and then letting the extra solvent evaporate,
transparent soaps are created.
iii. Medical Soaps: Medicinal ingredients are added to medical soaps. Deodorants are a
component of some soap. Glycerol is an ingredient in shaving soaps because it slows drying.
While making them, rosin gum is added. It produces sodium rosinate, which makes good
lather. Fillers added to the laundry soaps include sodium silicate, sodium rosinate, borax,
and sodium carbonate.
Making soap chips involves spreading a thin layer of melted soap onto a chilled cylinder and
scraping the soap off in tiny bits. Small, dried soap bubbles are what make up soap granules. A
little amount of soap, an abrasive (scouring agent) like pumice powder or finely ground sand, and
builders like sodium carbonate and tri sodium phosphate are all ingredients in soap powders and
scouring soaps. Builders hasten the action of the soaps.
Cleansing Action of Soap
Soaps are the sodium salts of long chain fatty acids. They are used to remove dirt and oil form a
fabric. Cleansing action of soaps and detergent is due to its structure. A sodium soap dissolves in
water to produce soap anions and sodium cations. This can be shown as:

The soap anion consists of two parts.
(i) Hydrophobic part: It is larger in size and has lengthy hydrocarbon chain. This part has no
polarity, and hence has no attraction for water molecules. This part repels water, and is
called as hydrophobic part.
(ii) Hydrophilic part: This part has polarity and loves water. It is smaller in size.
Hydrophilic part
CH3 CH 2 CH2 CH2 C H2 CH2 CH 2 C H2
CH 3 CH2 CH2 CH 2 CH2 CH 2 C H2 COO
Hydrophilic part
Similarly, a detergent is dissolved in water to produce detergent anions and sodium ion.
Similar to soap, a detergent also has a hydrophilic and hydrophobic part.
O Hydrophilic
|| part
–
Ch3 (CH2)N CH2 – O –| |S – O
O
Hydrophobic
part
When soap or detergent is added to water containing fabric with dirt, the hydrophobic part gets
attached to the dirt while the hydrophilic part comes in contact with the water molecules.
Due to this arrangement, the soap molecules form micelles and trap the dirt at the centre. The
micelles do not precipitate and maintain their identity due to charge repulsions and remain
suspended in the water. This forms a colloidal solution, and the trapped dirt can be easily rinsed
off. This is how the mechanism of cleansing action of soap works.

Fig 1.1 Mechanism of cleansing action of soap
Advantages and Disadvantages of Soap
With hard water, soap does not work well. This is due to the presence of calcium and magnesium
ions in hard water. When sodium or potassium soaps are dissolved in hard water, these ions result
in the formation of insoluble calcium and magnesium soaps, respectively.
2C17H35COONa+ CaCl2 ¾ ¾® 2NaCl + (C17H35COO)2 Ca

Soap Insoluble calcium
stearate (Soap)
These insoluble soaps are ineffective cleaning agents because they separate as scum in water.
In actuality, these impede effective washing because the precipitate attaches to the fabric's fibre
as a gooey mass. This sticky precipitate makes hair that has been washed in harsh water look
drab. Due to this sticky mass, dye does not transfer uniformly onto cloth after being rinsed with
detergent and harsh water.
Since soap is inexpensive and easily accessible and is used for personal hygiene and cleanliness,
it is still a very popular product. Utilising soap does not contribute to pollution. As it can be broken
down by the environmental microorganisms, soap is biodegradable.
2. Synthetic Detergents
A surfactant or combination of surfactants having cleaning characteristics in diluted solutions

is a detergent. Despite not actually containing any soap, these have all the qualities of soaps.
These work in both soft and hard water because they produce foam in both. Some detergents
produce foam in even ice-cold water.
Three categories serve as the main divisions for synthetic detergents as given below:
(i) Anionic detergents

(ii) Non – Ionic Detergents

(iii) Cationic detergents

(i) Anionic Detergents: Anionic detergents are sodium salts of sulphonated long chain
alcohols or hydrocarbons. Alkyl hydrogen sulphates formed by treating long chain alcohols
with concentrated sulphuric acid are neutralised with alkali to form anionic detergents.
Similarly, alkyl benzene sulphonates are obtained by neutralising alkyl benzene sulphonic
acids with alkali.
The cleaning activity of an anionic detergent is mediated by the anionic portion of the
molecule. An important class of anionic detergents are the sodium salts of alkyl benzene
sulphonates.
(ii) Cationic Detergents: Cationic detergents are quaternary ammonium salts of amines with
acetates, chlorides or bromides as anions. Cationic part possesses a long hydrocarbon chain
and a positive charge on nitrogen atom. Hence, these are called cationic detergents.
Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide is a popular cationic detergent and is used in hair
conditioners.
(iii) Non-ionic detergents: As these do not have any ions in them, they are non-ionic in nature.
When polyethylene glycol and stearic acid combine, one such detergent is created.

Disadvantages
The main issue with detergent use is that if the hydrocarbon chain is excessively branched,
bacteria cannot easily digest it. Detergents accumulate due to their slow breakdown. These
detergents persist in the water even after sewage treatment, and when their effluents reach rivers,
ponds, and other water bodies, they generate foaming and cause water pollution in those water
bodies.
3. Washing Powder or Laundry Detergents
These cleaning solutions are utilised for laundry cleaning. These are produced in liquid and
powder form. Although both the types of laundry detergent are equally effective, powdered
detergents are sold twice as frequently as liquid detergents.
Components
(i) Builders. These (also called chelating or sequestering agents) are water softeners. Hard
water contains calcium, magnesium, and metallic cations (primarily, iron, copper, and
manganese). These cations react with surfactant anions to form insoluble compounds
(metallic or lime soaps) which precipitate onto fabrics and washing machines and which
are difficult to remove. Builders remove the hard water ions through precipitation,
chelation, or ion exchange. In addition, they help remove soil by dispersion.
The first builder materials were sodium silicate (waterglass) and sodium carbonate
(washing soda). Phosphates (sodium phosphates) and polyphosphates (sodium
hexametaphosphate) have been around since the 1930s, and phosphonates (HEDP,
ATMP, EDTMP) have also been around since then. Since these substances are now
known to have negative effects on the environment, efforts have been made to replace
them with less harmful phosphorus-free substances like polycarboxylates (EDTA, NTA),
citrates (trisodium citrate), silicates (sodium silicate), gluconic acid, and polyacrylic acid,
as well as ion exchange materials like zeolites.
(ii) Surfactants. Surfactants are responsible for most of the cleaning performance in laundry
detergent. They provide this by absorption and emulsification of soil into the water and
also by reducing the water's surface tension to improve wetting. Most of the surfactants
in laundry detergents are anionic and non-ionic. Most detergents require a combination
of different surfactants to balance their performance because cationic surfactants are

typically incompatible with anionic detergents and have a low cleaning efficacy; they are
only used for specific special effects like fabric softeners, antistatic agents, and biocides.
(iii) Bleaches. In general, laundry bleaches like sodium perbonate and sodium percarbonate
are stable hydrogen peroxide addicts. These are in active solid state but release hydrogen
peroxide when exposed to water. Bleaches are mostly used to remove oxidisable organic
stains. Hot washes are often effective because hydrogen peroxide is insufficiently active
as a bleach at temperatures below 60°C. The advent of bleach activators made it possible
to successfully use higher temperatures for colour washing. One such substance-
Tetracyanoethylene Diamine (TAED) reacts with hydrogen peroxide to form peracetic
acid, which is even more potent bleach at lower temperatures.
(iv) Enzymes. Protein stains (milk, cocoa, blood, egg yolk, grass), fat stains (chocolate, oils),
starch stains (flour and potato stains), and cellulose stains (damaged cotton fibrils,
vegetable and fruit stains) all require the use of enzymes to break down. Proteases
(savinase) are needed to break down proteins, Iipases to break down greases, amylases
to break down carbohydrates, and cellulose to break down cellulose.
(v) Other Ingredients. Such additives alter the product's ability to foam by either stabilising
or combating foam. Other ingredients may solubilize other ingredients or alter the
viscosity of the solution. Inhibitors of corrosion prevent harm to laundry equipment.
Corrosion inhibitors counteract damage to washing equipment. Dye transfer inhibitors
prevent dyes from one article from colouring other items. Anti redeposition agents such
as carboxymethyl cellulose are used to prevent soil particles from reattaching to the
product being cleaned.
Before or while using the detergent, a variety of substances can alter the aesthetic qualities of the
item to be cleaned or the detergent itself. These substances include colourants, fabric softeners,
and optical brighteners. Modern detergents can include a range of scents as long as they work
well with the other ingredients and do not change the colour of the things being cleaned. Aromatic
aldehydes (helional, hexyl cinnamaldehyde, lilial), terpene alcohols (citronellol, geraniol, linalool,
nerol) and their esters (linalyl acetate), and synthetic musks (galaxolide) are frequent families of
molecules found in perfumes.

4. Dishwashing Detergents
A detergent to help with dishwashing is dishwashing liquid, dishwashing soap, dish detergent,
and dish soap. It is mostly used for hand washing dishes such as glasses, plates, cutlery and
cooking utensils in a sink or bowl. It is often a strongly foamy blend of surfactants with less
skin irritation.
Silver, brass, cast iron, bronze, aluminium, pewter, and gold leaf cannot be used with the
majority of dishwasher detergents. Additionally, they can damage delicate glassware,
anything made of wood, knives with hollow handles, and disposable plastic.
Dishwasher detergents are produced and sold in a variety of forms, including cartridges, gel,
liquids, powder, and tablets. Bleach, enzymes, or rinsing aids could be present in any
dishwashing liquid. Homemade dishwashing detergents can be prepared with borax,
eucalyptus oil, essential oils, and grated bar soap, among other ingredients.
Dishwashing detergents come in a variety of options and contain various chemicals, including:
(i) Phosphates: They bind calcium and magnesium ions to stop scale buildup caused by
"hard water." They have been banned or reduced to some extent because they can harm
the environment.
(ii) Oxygen-based bleaching agents: Dissolve and bleach organic deposits (older-style
powders and liquids use chlorine-based bleaching agents).
(iii) Non-ionic surfactants: These reduce water's surface tension, emulsify oil, lipid, and fat
food deposits, and stop droplet spotting while drying.
(iv) Alkaline salts: These are a key ingredient in vintage and traditional dishwasher
detergent powders. Highly alkaline salts attack and dissolve grease but are fatal if
swallowed due to their extreme corrosivity. Metasilicates, alkali metal hydroxides,
sodium carbonate, and other salts may be employed.
(v) Enzymes: These helps to dissolve protein-based food deposits and perhaps oil, lipid,
and fat ones as well. The enzymes employed are comparable to those employed in
laundry.
(vi) Anti-corrosion agent(s): Sodium silicate is frequently used to stop dishwater
component corrosion.

These might also include:
• Anti-foaming agents: Foam interferes with the washing action. Foam may affect
operation of the machine’s water-level sensors and will leak past the door seals.
• Additives: To slow down the removal of glaze and patterns from glazed ceramics
perfumes
• Anti-caking agents (in granular detergent)
• Starch (in tablet based detergents)
• Gelling agents (in liquid/gel based detergents)
• Sand (inexpensive powdered detergents)
Dishwashing detergents can be used for the following things in addition to helping with
dishwashing:
(i) To make a bubble-blowing solution, combine dishwashing liquid with water and other
additives like glycerin and sugar.
(ii) Delicate apparels like hosiery and lingerie can be cleaned with dishwashing liquid.
(iii) To make applying decals and vinyl graphics easier, dishwashing detergent is frequently
suggested in a diluted solution.
(iv) Dishwashing soap is often used in the industrial setting to check pressurised equipment
for leaks, such as propane fittings. It is used as a mounting bead lubricant, to check for
flats in pneumatic tyres.
(v) Homemade pest deterrents for gardens can be manufactured using dishwashing liquid
as an ingredient.
(vi) Coffee, tea, olive oil, soda, and fruit juice stains on linens can be removed with a
solution of dishwashing liquid and water. One type of dishwashing liquid has been used
to remove stains off white or light-coloured cloth napkins.
(vii) Birds harmed by oil spills have been treated with dishwashing liquid.
5. Hard Surface Cleaners
These are the materials (often liquids, powders, sprays, or granules) used to clean surfaces
of filth, dust, stains, offensive odours, and clutter. The purpose of surface cleaning agents is
cleanliness, aesthetics, the elimination of unpleasant odours, and preventing the spread of
germs. Some cleaning products can both clean and kill bacteria (such as those on door

handles, faucets, and other surfaces). Others, referred to as degreasers, include organic
solvents to aid in the dissolution of oils and fats. The substances employed as hard surface
cleansers are as follows:
(i) The primary use of acidic cleaning chemicals is to remove the inorganic deposits like
scaling. Strong mineral acids and chelants often make up the active components. The
acid is frequently supplemented with surfactants and corrosion inhibitors.
(ii) A typical mineral acid used for concrete is hydrochloric acid. In order to keep our
surroundings free of bacteria, vinegar can also be used to clean hard surfaces and
remove calcium deposits. Acidic drain cleaners that contain sulphuric acid dissolve fats,
proteins, and even carbohydrate-containing materials like toilet tissue to unclog clogged
pipes.
(iii) Strong bases like sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide are present in alkaline
cleaning products. Alkaline cleaning solutions like bleach (pH 12) and ammonia (pH 11)
are frequently used. The alkaline agent is frequently used with dispersants to stop the
redeposition of dissolved dirt and chelants to combat rust. Fats (including grease), oils,
and protein-based compounds can all be broken down by alkaline cleaners.
(iv) Non-ionic surfactants are the basis for neutral washing agents, which are pH-neutral and
disperse various types.
(v) Scouring agents are a combination of powdered abrasives and common cleaning agents
(surfactants, water softeners). The abrasive powder needs to have uniformly sized
particles.
Typically, particles are less than 0.05 mm. As abrasives, or polishing agents, pumice,
calcium carbonate (limestone, chalk, dolomite), kaolinite, quartz, soapstone, or talc are
frequently employed.
The traditional domestic bleaching agent, sodium hypochlorite, is released by chemicals

found in specialised bleaching powders. Trichloroisocyanuric acid and combinations of
sodium hypochlorite (also known as "chlorinated orthophosphate") are some of these
precursor chemicals.

6. All Purpose Cleaners
A combination of anionic and nonionic surfactants, polymeric phosphates or other

sequestering agents, solvents, hydrotropic materials, polymeric compounds, corrosion
inhibitors, skin-protective agents, and occasionally fragrances and colourants are found in
all-purpose cleaners. Aversive ingredients, such as denatonium, are occasionally added to
cleaning products to deter animals and young children from consuming them.
Oil, fat, and paint can be removed more easily with the use of cleaners that contain water-
soluble organic solvents such as glycol ethers and fatty alcohols. Quaternary ammonium
compounds, phenol derivatives, terpene alcohols (pine oil), aldehydes, and aldehyde-amine
condensation products are examples of additives used in disinfectants.
All-purpose cleansers are often concentrated mixes of water softeners and surfactants that
improve the surfactant's performance in hard water. Alkyl benzene sulfonates, an anionic
detergent, and modified fatty alcohols are common surfactants. Sodium triphosphate is a
common water softener.
All-purpose cleaners work well on the majority of common types of filth. They are safe to use
on most surfaces because their diluted solutions are neutral or barely alkaline.
7. Special Purpose Cleaners

i. Oven Cleaners. Traditional oven cleaners work well in somewhat warm water and
contain sodium hydroxide, solvents, and other chemicals.
ii. Toilet Bowl Cleaning Agents. These primarily aim to dissolve calcium carbonate deposits
on which acids attack. Acids are present in several powdered cleaners in the form of
solid salts, like sodium hydrogen sulfate. Other acids, often diluted hydrochloric,
phosphoric, or formic acids, are present in liquid toilet bowl cleansers. These turn
calcium carbonate into salts that are soluble in water, and can be easily disposed off.
iii. Chemical Drain Cleaners. These cleansers come in both liquid and solid forms. Acidic
drain cleaners are in liquid form, while alkaline drain cleaners are accessible in solid form.
iv. Metal Cleaners. These are utilized for cleaning cutlery, faucets, metal trim and stainless
steel sinks. These items comprise abrasives such as siliceous chalk, diatomaceous earth,
and alumina. Surfactants include fatty alcohols or alkylphenol polyglycol ethers with 7–
12 ethylene oxide (EO) units.

(a) The cleansers for ferrous metals include chelating agents, abrasives, and surfactants.
These non-aggressive agents include citric and phosphoric acids. Usually, modified
fatty alcohols serve as surfactants. Since silver is noble but tarnishes easily by forming
black silver sulphide, which can be removed with silver-specific complexants like
thiourea, silver cleaning is a specialty. Lactic, citric, or phosphoric acid is present in
cleansers for stainless steel, nickel, and chrome. Mineral spirits, a solvent, may be
added.
(b) Ammonia, ammonium soaps (ammonium oleate, stearate), and chelating agents
(ammonium citrate, oxalate) are all included in nonferrous metal cleaners.
(c) Special cleaning solutions are typically used to clean and protect expensive precious
metals from the elements, notably those used in high-end jewellery and luxury
watches.
8. Glass Cleaners. Alcohols, such as ethanol or isopropanol, and surfactants for removing
grease are typical window cleaners. Ammonia in trace levels, colours, and fragrances are
also included. These are made of an alkaline detergent and an organic, water-soluble solvent
like isopropyl alcohol. Some glass cleaners also contain a fine, mild abrasive. The majority
of glass cleaners come in liquid or spray form. They are applied with a delicate cloth and
removed with a soft, lint-free duster, or they are sprayed directly onto windows, mirrors, and
other glass surfaces. A glass cloth ideal for the job, soft water, and vinegar or methylated
spirit, is a cheap glass cleaner.
9. Building Facades Cleaners. For acid-resistant building facades, such as brick, acids are
typically used. These include surfactants and phosphoric and hydrofluoric acid mixtures.
Strongly alkaline cleaners like sodium hydroxide and thickeners are used on acid-sensitive
facades like concrete. Since the solutions are harsh on skin, both kinds of cleaners demand
frequent rinsing and extra care.
10. Green Cleaners. Green cleaning refers to using cleaning methods and products with
environment friendly ingredients and procedures which are designed to preserve human
health and environmental quality. Green cleaning techniques and products avoid the use of
products which contain toxic chemicals, some of which emit volatile organic compounds
causing respiratory, dermatological and other conditions.

Baking soda, soap, alcohol, corn flour, lemon juice, white vinegar, citrus solvent, washing
soda (also known as sodium carbonate or SAL soda), oxygen bleach, vegetable oil, and
hydrogen peroxide are examples of common household ingredients that are safe to use
alone, or in combination for a variety of cleaning applications.

(a) Soaps are the ___________ of fatty acids that are utilised in a number of
lubricating and cleaning works.
(b) _________ water contains calcium, magnesium, and metallic cations.
(a) Household products are food substances that are often used and stocked in and
around a typical home.
(b) The majority of soaps are created by heating fats or oils with the appropriate
soluble hydroxide.
3.2. Solvents, Paints and Waxes

In this section, we will discuss the meaning and uses of solvent, paints and waxes.
1. Solvents
A solvent is a substance that dissolves a solute resulting in a solution. A solvent is usually a

liquid but can also be a solid, a gas, or a supercritical fluid. Common uses of organic solvent
are as follows:
• Dry cleaning (tetrachloroethylene)

• Paint thinners (toluene, turpentine)
• Nail polish removers and glue solvents (acetone, methyl acetate, ethyl acetate)
• Spot removers (hexane, petrol ether)
• Detergents (citrus terpenes)
• Perfumes (ethanol)

All the ions and proteins in a cell are dissolved in water, which is a solvent for polar molecules and
the most frequent solvent employed by living organisms. In the chemical, pharmaceutical, oil, and
gas sectors, solvents are used in a variety of processes, including chemical synthesis and
purification.
Depending on their volatility, the majority of organic solvents are either extremely flammable or
flammable. Some chlorinated solvents, such as dichloromethane and chloroform, are exceptions.
Air and solvent vapour mixtures can catch fire and explode. Because they are heavier than air,
solvent vapours can travel over great distances almost undiluted and will sink to the bottom. Empty
containers of volatile solvents should be stored open and upside down since solvent vapours can
also be detected in seemingly empty drums and cans, creating a flash fire danger.
2. Paints
Paint is any pigmented liquid, liquefiable, or solid mastic composition that, after application
to a substrate in a thin layer, converts to a solid film. It is commonly used to protect, colour,
or provide texture to objects.
In the widest sense, a paint is made up of a specific pigment that has been mixed with a
specific binder and dissolved in a specific solvent.
Properties of Paints
(i) It must have the suitable colour and strong concealing power.
(ii) It should be able to withstand the atmospheric circumstances.
(iii) The finished film needs to be washable.
(iv) It should be corrosion-resistant.
(v) A glossy film should be created when applying paint on a surface.
Paints are made up of various combinations of the following substances:
(i) Binder. These are mostly resins, although they might also be inorganic substances. Among
the many different kinds of formulations, it is the one element that is consistently present in
paints. Many binders need to be diluted because they are too thick to apply. If a thinner is
used, it varies depending on the type of binder. The binder adds qualities including gloss,
hardness, durability, and flexibility. Alkyds, acrylics, vinyl-acrylics, vinyl acetate/ethylene

(VAE), polyurethanes, polyesters, melamine resins, epoxy, silanes or siloxanes, or oils are
examples of synthetic or natural resins that can be used as binders.
(ii) Pigments. These are solid granules that have been added to the paint to provide colour.
Pigments have a significant role in achieving the following crucial characteristics of paint:
(a) Provides colour, opacity, film cohesiveness, and occasionally inhibits corrosion.
(b) Gives the paint a beautiful appearance.
(c) To reflect harmful UV radiation, commonly used pigments including white lead, zinc
oxide, titanium dioxide, red oxide, carbon black, prussian blue, chrome yellow,
aluminium powder, etc., are employed in the production of films.
(iii)Fillers. These are often inexpensive, natural inorganic substances that are added to paint to
boost its volume. They lower the overall cost of the paints since they are less expensive in
comparison to prime pigments. Fillers' primary function is to:
(a) Increase volume and paint film thickness.
(b) Lower the price of paint.
(c) Add texture, toughness, and abrasion resistance.
(d) Control consistency
(e) Make the film thicker.
Calcium carbonate, gypsum, crushed silica, barytes, slate powder, French chalk, china clay,
mica, etc., are all common fillers.
(iv)Thinners. It is the liquid for viscosity adjustment for correct application. It is employed to
remove the binder and make painting easier. Organic liquids or water, turpentine oil, benzene,
naphtha, mineral spirit, acetone, carbon tetrachloride, and ethyl alcohol are examples of
commonly used solvents. Thinners' primary function is to:
(a) Control flow and application characteristics.
(b) Serve as a vehicle for pigments and binders.
(c) Facilitate penetrating porous surfaces.
(d) Clean paintbrushes and other painting equipment.
(v) Driers. These are added to accelerate the drying process. Lead acetate, cobalt octate,
manganese octate, litharge, red lead, lead octate, manganese dioxide, zinc sulphate, etc.,
are examples of commonly used driers.

(vi) Corrosion inhibitors. These are the compounds that inhibit corrosion by creating a coating
of metal oxide. Commonly used corrosion inhibitors include zinc and sodium molybdate,
which cause the surface to become passivated.
(vii) Additives. These are small quantities of various chemicals that change or enhance the
qualities of the paint. These stop pigments from clumping together.
3. Waxes
Waxes are organic compounds, hydrocarbons that consist of long aliphatic alkyl chains,
although aromatic compounds may also be present. These are as follows:
(i) Natural waxes. These may contain unsaturated bonds and include various functional
groups such as fatty acids, primary and secondary alcohols, ketones, aldehydes and
fatty acid esters. Leaves and stems of plants have wax coating on them. The wax
prevents the plant from losing excessive amounts of water.
(ii) Synthetic waxes. These include polyethylene and polypropylene waxes, which lack
functional groups and have lengthy chains of aliphatic hydrocarbons.
(a) Plant waxes. Wax is secreted by plants into their cuticles and on top of them. These
plant waxes are a blend of long-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons that also includes fatty
acids, ketones, aldehydes, alkanes, alkyl esters, diols, primary and secondary
alcohols, and fatty acids.
(b) Carnauba wax. It is a dense wax made from the leaves of the Brazilian carnauba
palm. With just trace levels of tree acids, alcohols, hydrocarbons, and resins, it
mostly consists of wax esters (85%). This wax has marketable qualities.
(c) Jojoba wax. It is made from the Jojoba plant, which grows in the USA and Mexico.
(d) Bayberry wax. The fruits of this plant have a thick covering of crystalline wax on
them.
(iii)Animal waxes. Beeswax, which is used to build honeycombs, is the most well-known animal
wax, although other insects also secrete waxes. Myricyl palmitate, an ester of triacontanol
and palmitic acid, is a significant component of beeswax. It melts at 62 and 65 °C. Large
levels of spermaceti are found in sperm whale head oil. Cetyl palmitate, another ester of a
fatty acid and a fatty alcohol, is one of its key components. Wool may be used to produce
lanolin, a wax made of sterol esters.

(iv)Paraffin waxes. It is a soft, colourless solid made of a combination of hydrocarbon molecules

with carbon atoms ranging from C20 to C40 that is formed from petroleum, coal, or shale oil.
These waxes are mainly consumed industrially as components of complex formulations, for
example colourants for plastics. Dispersions of polyethylene wax are used in inks to reduce
friction. Additionally, they serve as furniture slippers, releasing agents, and impart corrosion
resistance.

(a) A ___________ is a substance that dissolves a solute resulting in a solution.
(b) Many binders need to be ___________ because they are too thick to apply.
(a) Depending on their volatility, the majority of organic solvents are either extremely
flammable or flammable.
(b) A paint is made up of a specific pigment that has been mixed with a specific binder
and dissolved in a specific solvent.
3.3. Chemicals Involved in Cosmetics

A cosmetic is a product made to be applied to any area of the body that is visible from the outside
in order to improve the body's smells, change its appearance, clean it, maintain it, scent it, or
protect it. The usage of cosmetics dates back to thousands of years. Given below is a discussion
of several popular cosmetics in use today.
1. Lotions and Skin Cream. A lotion is a topical product with low viscosity that is applied to the
skin. Creams and gels, in contrast, have a greater viscosity since they often contain less
water. Applying lotions to the skin's surface requires just the use of the hands, a brush, a
clean cloth, or cotton wool.
While a lotion may be used to carry medication, most lotions, particularly hand and body
lotions, are just intended to moisturise, soften, and sometimes scent the skin.

Although other types, including tanning lotion, also exist, moisturising lotions make up the
majority of cosmetic lotions.
Anti-aging lotions, which in many circumstances can also be categorised as cosmetics, may
be solid as cosmetic lotions. They may also contain scents. The Food and Drug
Administration expressed worry about lotions that promote anti-aging or anti-wrinkle
capabilities.
The majority of lotions are oil-in-water emulsions that are kept together by a chemical like
cetearyl alcohol, although water-in-oil lotions can also be created.
A cream is a preparation usually for application to the skin. Creams may be considered
pharmaceutical products as even cosmetic creams are based on techniques developed by
pharmacy and unmedicated creams are highly used in a variety of skin conditions
(dermatoses). The use of the finger tip unit concept may be helpful in guiding how much
topical cream is required to cover different areas.
Creams are water and oil emulsions that are semi-solid. They may be further classified into
two categories:
(i) Creams that include small droplets of oil scattered in a continuous water phase (O/W)
and (ii) creams that contain small droplets of water dispersed in a continuous oily phase
(W/O).
(ii) Because oil-in-water creams are less oily and easier to remove with water, they are more
pleasant and aesthetically acceptable.
Although water-in-oil creams are more challenging to work with than oil-in-water creams,
many medications added to creams are hydrophobic, and will release more easily from the
former. Water-in-oil treatments also produce a more lubricating barrier, which lessens water
loss from the stratum corneum, the skin's outermost layer.
Cold creams and lotions typically have four primary ingredients: water, oil, emulsifiers, and
thickening agents.
2. Moisturizers. These cosmetic preparations are used for protecting, moisturizing, and
lubricating the skin. These functions are normally performed by sebum produced by healthy
skin.

Moisturizers often contain water, which acts as a temporary hydration agent and as a way
for the absorption of some components and evaporation of the moisturizer.
There are many different types of moisturizers. Petrolatum is one of the most effective
moisturizers, although it can be unpopular due to its oily consistency. Other popular
moisturizers are cetyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, cocoa butter, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl
palmitate, lanolin, liquid paraffin, polyethylene glycols, silicone oils, stearic acid, stearyl
alcohol and castor oil, as well as other oils.
These may also contain some antioxidants, ceramids, emulsifiers, fragrances, penetration
enhancers, preservatives, and solvents.
Moisturizers may also be available as lotions, creams, ointments, bath oils, or soap
substitutes.
3. Shaving Cream. These are the cosmetics used for shaving preparation. The purpose of
shaving cream is to soften the hair by providing lubrication. Shaving cream comes in a variety
of forms, including aerosol (also known as shaving foam), latherless (also known as
brushless and non-aerosol), and lathering (also known as lathering shaving cream).
An emulsion of oils, soaps, or surfactants (such as triethanolamine steatrate) and water is

what most shaving creams are made of. Lather shaving creams contain a humectant in
addition to soap for a softer consistency and to keep the lather wet. On the other hand,
brushless shaving creams do not include soap and do not make lather. They consist of
humectants, wetting agents, and other substances added to an oil-in-water emulsion.
Shaving creams that are aerosolized are essentially liquid lather shaving cream with
propellants, vegetable waxes, and different oils added.
4. Sunblock and Sunscreen. Sunburn can result from too much exposure to the sun.
Sunburns are frequent in humans, but they may also happen to light-skinned animals like
cats and pigs. Skin cancer can also develop as a result of too much sun exposure. Skin from
UV radiation is protected by sunscreen and sunblock.
Sunblocks: These have inorganic components like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. By
reflecting the UV radiation from the sun, these compounds serve as UV filters. Since they
contain inorganic materials, sunblocks can have a gritty feel. A sunblock's thickness might
make it challenging to apply uniformly to the skin.

Sunscreen. Organic substances such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate, and

octinoxate are present in these cosmetics. These substances transform into heat-producing
chemicals by absorbing UV light. Sunscreens are easier to apply than sunblock.

(a) A lotion is a topical product with low ____________ that is applied to the skin.
(b) Creams are water and oil _____________ that are semi-solid.
(a) A cosmetic is a product made to be applied to any area of the body that is visible
from the outside in order to improve the body's smells, change its appearance,
clean it, maintain it, scent it, or protect it.
(b) Petrolatum is one of the least effective moisturizers.
3.4. Shampoos and Conditioners

Shampoos and conditioners are made to clean the hair, scalp, and accumulations of perspiration,
debris, and sebum. Additionally, certain antibacterial substances are included to prevent dandruff
and scalp infections. With frequent usage, strong surfactants like SLS and preservatives like
Parabens that strip hair of its natural oils cause hair to become frizzy, dry, and damaged. Long-
term exposure to some of these substances increases the risk of cancer development.
Although there are many shampoos and conditioners in the market to meet various hair demands,
the basic ingredients often remain the same. These basic ingredients include:
• Detergent and Foaming Agents
• Conditioners
• Thickeners
• Sequestering Components
• Artificial Colours and Fragrances
• Preservatives
1. Detergent and Foaming Agents. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth
Sulfate (SLES). SLS and SLES are common surfactants commonly found in shampoos.

These chemicals entirely strip the hair of moisture and natural oils that keep the hair
nourished in addition to removing excess perspiration and sebum. This causes hair to
become frizzy, dry, and brittle, which tangles and breaks easily.
To produce the thick lather in shampoos, diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA),
two hazardous foaming agents, are utilised. However, nitrosodiethanolamine (NDEA), a
substance that causes cancer, can be created when DEA and TEA interact and react with
other substances.
2. Harmful conditioning substances. Silicon creates a glossy coating on the hair shaft that
seals in moisture and temporarily hydrates hair, giving it a smooth, lustrous appearance.
However, persistent application might lead to a permanent accumulation of silicon, which
prevents nutrients and moisture through the cuticle, resulting in dryness and damage.
3. Harmful Thickening Agents. These include:
(i) Polyethylene glycol (PEG): It is used in shampoos and conditioners as a thickening
agent and increases the shampoo’s viscosity. However, PEGs are carcinogenic in
nature.
(ii) Sodium Chloride: It is another thickening agent used in shampoos. It causes skin
irritation and is damaging to the cuticle layer of hair shaft.
4. Hazardous preservatives. These include:
(i) Parabens: These are added to shampoos and conditioners to lengthen the shelf life of
the finished goods. These prevent bacterial or fungal development on hair products.
These are easily absorbed via the skin and can result in breast cancer.
(ii) Formaldehyde: This helps to preserve shampoo for longer period. It is naturally
carcinogenic, causes skin allergies, and if used continuously, it may result in asthma.
(iii) Methylchloroisothiazolinone: It is a preservative included in shampoos and can have
several harmful effects on the body.
(iv) Triclosan: It functions as an anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent in shampoos and
toothpastes. It can result in a number of health issues, including cancer, weakened
immunological function, and skin allergies.
5. Harmful Fragrances. These include:
(i) Polysorbates: These are employed in the fragrance addition process for shampoos,
conditioners, and other cosmetics. They can lead to skin cancer and allergies.

(ii) Phthalates: These are included to extend the life of scents. They contribute to a number
of health issues, including nausea, hormone imbalances, and issues with the
reproductive system.
3.5. Deodorants and Antiperspirants

Deodorants have fragrances to cover the scent of sweat as well as aluminium and zinc salts. The
majority of common antiperspirants uses aluminium compounds, such as aluminium
trichlorohydrex gly, to block sweat ducts and prevent sweat from reaching the skin's surface.
Several aluminium compounds have been shown to be neurotoxic, irritate the skin, and interact
with oestrogen, which raises the risk of breast cancer.
Alternatives to traditional deodorants and antiperspirants are crystal deodorants. As active
components, they often comprise potassium alum or aluminum alum, which are thought to be less
allergic than other substances serving a similar purpose. This category of goods includes several
items with significant scent content. Many products in this category contain substantial levels of
fragrance. For aerosol products, toxicity of the propellant and its impurities is a consideration in
formulation and in practical use. For example, isobutane, a propellant in aerosol sprays, can be
contaminated with carcinogenic butadiene. Aerosol sprays create extremely small particles, which
can be more deeply inhaled and this may increase their harmful effects.
The following chemicals found in deodorants are cause of concern:
1. Aluminum: Antiperspirants and deodorants frequently contain it. Aluminium salts block the
sweat glands, but they also encourage cancer-causing cell mutation. Dementia and bone
disease are also linked to the use of aluminium.
2. Triclosan
3. Phthalates
4. Parabens
3.6. Disinfectants
A chemical substance or mixture of chemicals known as a disinfectant is used to inactivate or
eradicate bacteria on inert surfaces. Hydrogen peroxide, quaternary ammonium compounds,
chlorine compounds, alcohols, aldehydes, iodophores, phenolic compounds, etc., are among the
commonly used disinfectants.

Disinfectants are commonly used in food, drink and catering industries. These include following
harmful chemicals:
1. Surface Active Agents. These include surfactants exhibiting biocidal properties. These
include the cationics (quaternary ammonium compounds, often known as QACs or quats),
the amphoterics (based on amyl alkyl glycines), and the biguanides/diguanides. Numerous
amphoterics and cationics are categorised as irritants of the skin, eyes, and respiratory
systems. Biguanides and diguanides are effective skin disinfectants because of their low
toxicity and irritancy.
2. Alcohols. These are employed as skin cleansers and as a vehicle for other active
compounds, but high airborne concentrations can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and
risk of fire danger.
3. Aldehydes. Glutaraldehyde is categorised as a respiratory and skin sensitizer.

Formaldehyde is a category 3 carcinogen and a potent irritant to the respiratory system.
4. Peracetic acid. It is a highly corrosive oxidising agent that is utilised in the food and
beverage sectors.
5. Hypochlorite and organic chlorine-releasing compounds are considered eye and skin
irritants in their diluted form (5–10%) but are corrosive in their concentrated form.
Normally, it is advised to avoid disinfectants, particularly the aldehydes, unless the sanitation
programme specifies an absolute necessity, since they may include compounds that are
hazardous through inhalation, to the skin, or are sensitizers. Strict safety precautions to limit
exposure will be needed in these circumstances.
3.7. Insect Repellants

These are the substances which can reduce the effect of mosquitoes and other biting insects. Use
of these repellants can help in reducing insect borne illness such as malaria, dengue, and West
Nile virus. However, if used improperly, these repellants can be harmful. The most important
ingredients and their harmful effects are discussed below:

1. N,N-Diethyl-Meta-toluamide (DEET). One of the most popular compounds for repelling

mosquitoes is DEET. DEET can cause skin irritation when applied at quantities more than
50%, even though lesser amounts are thought to be safe. It can also result in eye inflammation.
DEET can occasionally harm the central nervous system. It penetrates the skin as well.
Slurred speech, disorientation, and seizures have been reported in some people. The most
frequent causes of these symptoms are prolonged, excessive exposure, or unsuitable usage.
2. Permethrin. It is yet another repellent used in garments and other fabric-based objects like
tents, sleeping bags, and other apparel. The EPA has classed it as ‘likely to be carcinogenic
to humans’ if consumed, and it can irritate the eyes.
3. P-mentane-3,8-diol. It has a number of health risks attached to it. Long-term exposure might
result in edema and redness of the skin along with genetic harm.
4. Metofluthrin. According to research on its toxicity in rats and mice, it can result in liver tumours
and liver necrosis.
5. Adverse responses can also be caused by other substances used in repellent compositions,
such as solvents and diluents like isopropyl alcohol.
When used correctly, these repellents may be a very effective tool for reducing mosquito
populations.
Insect repellent alternatives. Numerous natural extracts and essential oils, such as those from
lemon, eucalyptus, citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, geranium, castor, cinnamon, rosemary,
cedar, juniper, soybean, coconut, and palmarosa, are used to repel mosquitoes. Despite the fact
that these products are typically regarded as safe, allergic reactions might nevertheless occur.
3.8. Air Fresheners

These are the consumer goods that release fragrances to fill the air with perfume, cover odors, or
do both. They come in a variety of forms, including sprays, gels, oils, liquids, solids, plug-ins,
hanging discs, beads, potpourri, wick diffusers, and scented candles. They can also be active or
passive, and they can have immediate, intermittent, or continuous release. Additionally, there are
products marketed as air care, deodorizers, odor controls, and neutralizers. Air fresheners can
also include scented air systems that disperse fragrance across a room, such as by tying a
fragrance diffuser to the HVAC system, in addition to site-specific devices or portable goods.

Harmful Effect of Air Fresheners
Synthetic fragrance chemicals are used in air fresheners to add a perfume, but they are also mixed
with dispersing agents and product preservers. As contaminants or potential sources of significant
sickness, the following compounds found in air fresheners:
(i) 1,4-Diclorobenzene (1,4 DB): It is a VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) that may impair
lung function. Impairment of lung function is of special concern for those who have asthma
or other respiratory illnesses, especially children.
(ii) Acetaldehyde: It is a probable carcinogen.
(iii) Benzene: A known carcinogen and developmental and reproductive toxin.
(iv) d-Limonene: It is associated with skin and eye irritation. This substance is a sensitizer,
and likely to increase the odds of a future allergic reaction.
(v) Formaldehyde: It is a known carcinogen.
(vi) Parabens: It is linked to breast cancer and effects associated with hormone disruption.
(vii) Phthalates: It is associated with effects from endocrine disruption, including damage to
the female reproductive system, birth defects, and lower sperm counts.
(viii) Styrene: It is associated with cancer and neurotoxicity.
(ix) Toluene: It is linked to developmental and reproductive toxicity.
(x) Xylene: It is linked to the effects of central nervous system depression, like headache,
dizziness, depression, and impaired short-term memory.
3.9. Bleach
Bleach is known for eliminating algae, bacteria, mildew and mold with its antimicrobial properties.
Researchers have recently shown that bleach fumes, along with other common home cleaners,
particularly toilet bowl cleansers and ammonia, can create airborne particles that could be
dangerous for people or animals to breathe in.
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and chlorine gas (Cl2) from bleach-containing products can build up in
homes to deadly amounts. Secondary organic aerosols (SOAs), which are frequently connected
to a variety of health effects throughout the body, are created when these two gases react with
light, citrus chemicals found in common household cleaning products (such as lemon or orange-
scented cleaners), or raw citric acid found in foods (such as areas where lemons were recently
cut for garnishing at the bar or a food prep area where lemon juice was spilled).

Harmful Effect of Chlorine Bleach on Human Health
The harmful effects of chlorine bleach occur within the respiratory system besides affecting the
various parts of the human body.
1. Respiratory: Inhaling chlorine bleach can make you cough and induce chemical pneumonitis,
which can be acute or persistent. Pneumonitis-related inflammation might worsen and lead to
lung rigidity. Effects may lead to respiratory collapse if left untreated. This risk can be
especially severe in cafeterias and restaurants when walk-in refrigerators and other confined
rooms with poor airflow are cleaned with bleach.
2. Eyes: Bleach causes apparent irritation as soon as it comes in contact with the eyes. The
eyes' natural secretions and bleach will react to create a dangerous acid. In addition to causing
discomfort, the acid that is produced in the eye can result in corneal ulcers and even blindness.
3. Mouth/Throat: Due to patients' ignorance of the hazards of home bleach on the mouth and
throat, several dentists have observed patients using it to whiten their teeth. Bleach may soften
and harm oral tissues, and cavities caused by dead tissue may necessitate root canal therapy
or possibly the entire tooth removal.
4. Stomach/GI Tract: Due to its caustic properties, bleach can cause esophageal gastric burns.
In the event of bleach intake, one may feel burning, vomiting, damage to the stomach lining,
and long-term harm or death. In some cases, there is a chance of chemical contamination or
bleach seeping into food if bleach is used to clean dishes, equipment, or spaces used for food
preparation.
5. Skin: Burning, itching, and overall discomfort can occur when skin comes into direct contact
with bleach. Hyperpigmentation can happen after prolonged exposure.
(a) With frequent usage, strong surfactants like SLS and preservatives like Parabens
that strip hair of its _____________ cause hair to become frizzy, dry, and
damaged.
(b) Hydrogen peroxide, quaternary ammonium compounds, chlorine compounds,
alcohols, aldehydes, iodophores, phenolic compounds, etc., are among the
commonly used ___________.


(a) It is advised to avoid disinfectants (such certain aldehydes) unless the sanitation
programme specifies an absolute necessity since they may include compounds
that are hazardous through inhalation, to the skin, or are sensitizers.
(b) Insect repellants are the consumer goods that release fragrances to fill the air with
perfume, cover odours, or do both.

4. SUMMARY
• Chemistry is the study of change in colour, shape and size when a substance reacts with
another substance.
• Salt is a crucial component of cooking. Its scientific name is sodium chloride (NaCl), and
besides flavouring food, it also serves as a preservative.
• Sunscreen is a crucial cosmetic that protects our skin from damaging UV radiation and
maintains our natural complexion. Sunscreen cream contains a number of organic and
inorganic compounds, including TiO2, that block the sun's rays and stop them from
penetrating deeper layers of skin.
• All food, including the healthy and frequently desired carbohydrates, vitamins, fats, proteins,
and fibre, are composed of chemical molecules. Chemicals play a big part in how food is
grown and kept in storage. Food may now be kept fresher for longer by using chemicals used
in food preservation.
• Emulsifiers increase the stability of the emulsion; for instance, potassium cetyl sulphate.
• By observing, maintaining, and enhancing the habitats in which we live, such as the air, water,
and soil, this field of chemistry contributes to environmental preservation. In order to make
sure that all environmental contamination is evaluated and maintained from deteriorating, a
number of strategies and procedures have been devised.
• Household products are non-food substances that are often used and stocked in and around
a typical home.
• Soaps and artificial detergents are the cleaning agents that are most frequently utilized. These
enhance the ability of water to clean.
• Soaps are the salts of fatty acids that are utilised in a number of lubricating and cleaning
works. Soaps are surfactants that are frequently used in homes for washing, bathing, and
other housekeeping tasks.
• With hard water, soap does not work well. This is due to the presence of calcium and
magnesium ions in hard water. When sodium or potassium soaps are dissolved in hard water,
these ions result in the formation of insoluble calcium and magnesium soaps, respectively.

• A surfactant or combination of surfactants having cleaning characteristics in diluted solutions

is a detergent. Despite not actually containing any soap, these have all the qualities of soaps.
These work in both soft and hard water because they produce foam in both. Some detergents
produce foam in even ice-cold water.
• Builders (also called chelating or sequestering agents) are water softeners. Hard water
contains calcium, magnesium, and metallic cations (primarily, iron, copper, and manganese).
The first builder materials were sodium silicate (waterglass) and sodium carbonate (washing
soda).
• A detergent to help with dishwashing is dishwashing liquid, dishwashing soap, dish detergent,
and dish soap. It is mostly used for hand washing dishes such as glasses, plates, cutlery and
cooking utensils in a sink or bowl. It is often a strongly foamy blend of surfactants with less
skin irritation.
• A combination of anionic and nonionic surfactants, polymeric phosphates or other

sequestering agents, solvents, hydrotropic materials, polymeric compounds, corrosion
inhibitors, skin-protective agents, and occasionally fragrances and colourants are found in all-
purpose cleaners. Aversive ingredients, such as denatonium, are occasionally added to
cleaning products to deter animals and young children from consuming them.
• Metal cleaners are utilized for cleaning cutlery, faucets, metal trim and stainless steel sinks.
These items comprise abrasives such as siliceous chalk, diatomaceous earth, and alumina.
• A solvent is a substance that dissolves a solute resulting in a solution. A solvent is usually a

liquid but can also be a solid, a gas, or a supercritical fluid.
• Paint is any pigmented liquid, liquefiable, or solid mastic composition that, after application to
a substrate in a thin layer, converts to a solid film. It is commonly used to protect, colour, or
provide texture to objects.
• Waxes are organic compounds, hydrocarbons that consist of long aliphatic alkyl chains,
although aromatic compounds may also be present.
• A cosmetic is a product made to be applied to any area of the body that is visible from the
outside in order to improve the body's smells, change its appearance, clean it, maintain it,
scent it, or protect it.

• Moisturizers often contain water, which acts as a temporary hydration agent and as a way for
the absorption of some components and evaporation of the moisturiser.
• The purpose of shaving cream is to soften the hair by providing lubrication. Shaving cream
comes in a variety of forms, including aerosol (also known as shaving foam), latherless (also
known as brushless and non-aerosol), and lathering (also known as lathering shaving cream).
• Sunblocks have inorganic components like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. By reflecting the UV
radiation from the sun, these compounds serve as UV filters.
• Shampoos and conditioners are made to clean the hair, scalp, and accumulations of
perspiration, debris, and sebum.
• Deodorants have fragrances to cover the scent of sweat as well as aluminium and zinc salts.
The majority of common antiperspirants uses aluminium compounds, such as aluminium
trichlorohydrex gly, to block sweat ducts and prevent sweat from reaching the skin's surface.
Several aluminium compounds have been shown to be neurotoxic, irritate the skin, and
interact with oestrogen, which raises the risk of breast cancer.
• A chemical substance or mixture of chemicals known as a disinfectant is used to inactivate or

eradicate bacteria on inert surfaces. Hydrogen peroxide, quaternary ammonium compounds,
chlorine compounds, alcohols, aldehydes, iodophores, phenolic compounds, etc., are among
the commonly used disinfectants.
• Air fresheners are the consumer goods that release fragrances to fill the air with perfume,
cover odours, or do both. They come in a variety of forms, including sprays, gels, oils, liquids,
solids, plug-ins, hanging discs, beads, potpourri, wick diffusers, and scented candles. They
can also be active or passive, and they can have immediate, intermittent, or continuous
release.
• Bleach is known for eliminating algae, bacteria, mildew and mold with its antimicrobial
properties. Researchers have recently shown that bleach fumes, along with other common
home cleaners, particularly toilet bowl cleansers and ammonia, can create airborne particles
that could be dangerous for people or animals to breathe in.

5. GLOSSARY
Chemistry is the study of change in colour, shape and size when a
Chemistry -
substance reacts with another substance.
Soaps are the cleaning agents that are most frequently utilised. These
Soap: -
enhance the ability of water to clean
A solvent is a substance that dissolves a solute resulting in a solution.

Solvent: - A solvent is usually a liquid but can also be a solid, a gas, or a
supercritical fluid.
Waxes are organic compounds, hydrocarbons that consist of long
Wax: - aliphatic alkyl chains, although aromatic compounds may also be
present.
A chemical substance or mixture of chemicals known as a disinfectant
is used to inactivate or eradicate bacteria on inert surfaces. Hydrogen
Disinfectant: - peroxide, quaternary ammonium compounds, chlorine compounds,
alcohols, aldehydes, iodophores, phenolic compounds, etc., are among
the commonly used disinfectants.
Bleach is known for eliminating algae, bacteria, mildew and mold with
Bleach: -
its antimicrobial properties..

6. TERMINAL QUESTIONS
Short-Answer Type Questions
1. State the importance of chemistry and chemicals in everyday life.
2. Name the chemical substances that are frequently found in food.
3. What are special purpose cleaners?
4. What do you mean by sunblock and sunscreen?
5. What are the basic ingredients used in shampoos and conditioners?
Long-Answer Type Questions
1. Explain the makeup of soaps and detergents along with their types and uses.
2. Discuss the meaning and uses of solvent, paints and waxes.
3. What kinds of chemicals are used in cosmetics? Explain.
4. What are disinfectants and insect repellants? Explain.
5. Discuss the chemical composition of bleach and its harmful effects on human health.

7. ANSWERS
5. Analyse the relationship of sociology with History and political science.
7.1 Self-Assessment Questions

1. (a) chlorophyll (b) salt
2. (a) True (b) False
3. (a) salts (b) Hard
4. (a) False (b) True
5. (a) solvent (b) diluted
6. (a) True (b) True
7. (a) viscosity (b) emulsions
9. (a) natural oils (b) disinfectants
7.2 Terminal Questions

Short-Answer Type Questions
Answer 1: Chemistry is the study of change in colour, shape and size when a substance reacts
with another substance. The importance of chemistry and chemicals in everyday life can be
understood in many ways. Refer to Section 2.
Answer 2: The chemical substances which are frequently found in food are colouring substances,
synthetic preservatives, stabilisers for flow, glueing agent, etc. Refer to Section 2.
Answer 3: Special purpose cleaners are oven cleaners, toilet bowl cleaning agent, chemical drain
cleaners, metal and glass cleaners. Refer to Section 1.
Answer 4: Sunburn can result from too much exposure to the sun. Sunburns are frequent in
humans, but they may also happen to light-skinned animals like cats and pigs. Skin cancer can
also develop as a result of too much sun exposure. Skin from UV radiation is protected by
sunscreen and sunblock. Refer to Section 3.
Answer 5: Shampoos and conditioners are made to clean the hair, scalp, and accumulations of
perspiration, debris, and sebum. Although there are many shampoos and conditioners in the

market to meet various hair demands, the basic ingredients often remain the same. Refer to
Section 4.
Long-Answer Type Questions
Answer 1: Soaps and artificial detergents are the cleaning agents that are most frequently utilized.
These enhance the ability of water to clean. Refer to Section 1.
Answer 2: A solvent is a substance that dissolves a solute resulting in a solution. Paint is any
pigmented liquid, liquefiable, or solid mastic composition that, after application to a substrate in a
thin layer, converts to a solid film. Waxes are organic compounds, hydrocarbons that consist of
long aliphatic alkyl chains, although aromatic compounds may also be present. Refer to Section
2.
Answer 3: A cosmetic is a product made to be applied to any area of the body that is visible from
the outside in order to improve the body's smells, change its appearance, clean it, maintain it,
scent it, or protect it. The usage of cosmetics dates back to thousands of years. Refer to Section
3.
Answer 4: A chemical substance or mixture of chemicals known as a disinfectant is used to

inactivate or eradicate bacteria on inert surfaces. Insect repellants are the substances which can
reduce the effect of mosquitoes and other biting insects. Use of these repellants can help in
reducing insect borne illness such as malaria, dengue, and West Nile virus. Refer to Sections 6.
Answer 5: Bleach is known for eliminating algae, bacteria, mildew and mold with its antimicrobial
properties. Researchers have recently shown that bleach fumes, along with other common home
cleaners, particularly toilet bowl cleansers and ammonia, can create airborne particles that could
be dangerous for people or animals to breathe in. Refer to Section 9.

8. REFERENCES
• David Bernstein, Aaron. 2008. Popular Books on Natural Science: For Practical Use in Every
Household, for Readers of All Classes. South Carolina: BiblioLife.
• Agarwal, Radhika, Dr. Usha Agarwal. 2019. Core Natural Sciences. Kindle Direct Publishing:
Seattle.

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OBAC101: Natural Science

2 Importance Of Chemistry And Chemicals In - 1 4-6

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 2

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 3

2. IMPORTANCE OF CHEMISTRY AND CHEMICALS

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 4

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 5

1. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 6

3. CHEMICALS FOUND IN HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS:

3.1. Cleansing Agents

1. Soaps for Personal Cleanliness

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 7

Cleansing Action of Soap

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 8

The soap anion consists of two parts.

CH3 CH 2 CH2 CH2 C H2 CH2 CH 2 C H2

CH 3 CH2 CH2 CH 2 CH2 CH 2 C H2 COO

Similar to soap, a detergent also has a hydrophilic and hydrophobic part.

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 9

Fig 1.1 Mechanism of cleansing action of soap

Advantages and Disadvantages of Soap

2C17H35COONa+ CaCl2 ¾ ¾® 2NaCl + (C17H35COO)2 Ca

A surfactant or combination of surfactants having cleaning characteristics in diluted solutions

(i) Anionic detergents

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 10

(iii) Cationic detergents

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 11

3. Washing Powder or Laundry Detergents

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 12

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 13

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 14

These might also include:

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 15

The traditional domestic bleaching agent, sodium hypochlorite, is released by chemicals

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 16

6. All Purpose Cleaners

A combination of anionic and nonionic surfactants, polymeric phosphates or other

7. Special Purpose Cleaners

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 17

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 18

3. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

3.2. Solvents, Paints and Waxes

A solvent is a substance that dissolves a solute resulting in a solution. A solvent is usually a

• Dry cleaning (tetrachloroethylene)

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 19

Paints are made up of various combinations of the following substances:

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 20

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 21

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 22

(iv)Paraffin waxes. It is a soft, colourless solid made of a combination of hydrocarbon molecules

5. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

3.3. Chemicals Involved in Cosmetics

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 23

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 24

An emulsion of oils, soaps, or surfactants (such as triethanolamine steatrate) and water is

Unit: 1 – Chemicals in Household Products 25

Sunscreen. Organic substances such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate, and