| Definition: Short for 'SURFace ACTive AgeNT' - a surfactant is a molecule that lowers suface tension.
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Surfactant molecules contain both hydrophobic and hydrophilic components and are thus semi-soluble in both organic and aqueous solvents. Surfactants are the active ingredients in soap, since the hydrophobic compontent sticks to grease and dirt while the hydrophilic section sticks to the water.
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