Advancements in biotechnology have led to the development of laundry detergent enzymes that are more effective at removing stubborn stains from clothing. These enzymes can replace the phosphates used in traditional detergents.
Which statement best explains why laundry detergent enzymes are better than phosphate-based laundry detergents?
Responses
They take more effort to manufacture.
They take more effort to manufacture.
They do not require any water to wash clothing.
They do not require any water to wash clothing.
They help reduce phosphate pollution in the environment.
They help reduce phosphate pollution in the environment.
They speed the drying time for washed clothing.
They help reduce phosphate pollution in the environment.
The correct answer is: They help reduce phosphate pollution in the environment.
Detergents that contain phosphates can lead to an excessive release of phosphorous into water bodies, which can cause harmful algal blooms and negatively impact aquatic ecosystems. Enzyme-based laundry detergents, on the other hand, do not contain phosphates and therefore help to reduce phosphate pollution in the environment.
The best statement that explains why laundry detergent enzymes are better than phosphate-based laundry detergents is: "They help reduce phosphate pollution in the environment."
To understand why this statement is true, we need to look at the role of phosphates in traditional laundry detergents and the advantages of using enzymes instead.
Phosphates are commonly used in traditional laundry detergents because they act as water softeners and help remove stains. However, when these detergents are used and washed down the drain, the phosphates end up in water bodies such as rivers and lakes. Over time, the accumulation of phosphates in these water bodies can lead to an overgrowth of algae, causing harm to aquatic ecosystems through a process called eutrophication.
Laundry detergent enzymes, on the other hand, are proteins that break down complex stain molecules into simpler substances, making it easier for the detergent to remove them. These enzymes are derived from renewable sources and are biodegradable, meaning they break down naturally in the environment.
By using laundry detergent enzymes, we can reduce the reliance on phosphates, which helps in minimizing phosphate pollution in the environment. This is an important advancement in biotechnology as it promotes sustainable cleaning practices and protects aquatic ecosystems.
Therefore, the statement "They help reduce phosphate pollution in the environment" is the best explanation for why laundry detergent enzymes are better than phosphate-based laundry detergents.