Detergents are prepared by the action of H₂SO₄

lauryl alcohol

The answer is 2. lauryl alcohol.

Detergents are prepared by the action of sulfuric acid (H2SO4) on long-chain aliphatic alcohols, such as lauryl alcohol. The reaction of sulfuric acid with lauryl alcohol produces a sulfate ester, which is a detergent.

Cholesterol, cyclohexanol, and p-nitrophenol are not used to make detergents.

Here is a summary of the process of making detergents from lauryl alcohol:

1. Lauryl alcohol is dissolved in sulfuric acid.

2. The mixture is heated to a high temperature.

3. The sulfate ester is formed.

4. The sulfate ester is neutralized with sodium hydroxide to form a sodium salt, which is the detergent.

Detergents are used to clean clothes, dishes, and other surfaces. They are also used in personal care products, such as shampoo and soap. Detergents work by lowering the surface tension of water, which allows them to penetrate dirt and grime and lift it away from surfaces.