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A detergent that is structurally biodegradable is expected to have which type of hydrocarbon chain?

1. A straight-chain alkyl group
2. A branched alkyl group
3. A phenyl substituent
4. A cyclohexyl substituent

Correct answer: A straight-chain alkyl group

Solution

Detergents with straight (linear) alkyl chains are readily broken down by microorganisms and are biodegradable, whereas highly branched chains resist microbial attack and are non-biodegradable. So a biodegradable detergent has a straight-chain alkyl group.

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