A student learns that a soap molecule has two ends, one of which is an ionic end and the other is the carbonic chain. Which explanation best describes how a soap molecule interacts with oil?

carbonic chain end of the soap interacts with the oil

The correct answer is option 3. carbonic chain end of the soap interacts with the oil.

The best explanation for how a soap molecule interacts with oil is Carbonic chain end of the soap interacts with the oil.

Soap molecules have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) ionic end and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) carbon chain end. The hydrophobic carbon chain end interacts with oil molecules because both are nonpolar and share similar intermolecular forces, such as van der Waals forces. This interaction allows the soap molecule to surround and solubilize oil molecules in water, facilitating the formation of micelles and the removal of oil and grease from surfaces during the process of cleaning. Therefore, the carbon chain end of the soap molecule is the part that primarily interacts with oil.