Why is my computer so slow: Fix a Slow Computer

Home

General Information

Why is my computer so slow

Think of a moment when you are working on a computer and suddenly it all gets stuck somewhere and you have to start it again, you could not save your work. This is one the most frustrating moment while working on a computer and you may probably feel like - why? Why is my computer so slow?

Here, we have discussed all the reasons that can slow down your computer system. I would suggest you proceed one by one. This will help you find out the real problem of messing with your system. Fix all the problems you find and keep your computer in motion with your ethics.

Let’s do it:

Reasons for a slow Computer System

• List of Reasons [Show/ Hide List]
  • • Too many startup programs
  • • Running out of disk space (SSD or HDD)
  • • Animations and special visual effects
  • • Unwanted temporary files
  • • Running multiple programs simultaneously
  • • Unnecessary background processes
  • • Browser has too many add-ons/ plugins
  • • Using several tabs on a browser
  • • Malware or Virus Attacks
  • • An overzealous antivirus
  • • Computer system overheated
  • • Running in power saver mode
  • • Computer needs to be rebooted
  • • Running out of RAM (Random Access Memory)
  • • Disk drive is failing
  • • Old or fragmented hard drive
  • • Processor is outdated

Technically, an operating system decides or sequences tasks or processes on any computer system. It is also responsible for controlling drive space, controlling memory and processing power, etc. in all running programs. Although operating systems are developed in such a way that they can handle computer performance, there are some factors listed above that can reduce performance.

Usually, when we buy or setup a new system, it works very fast. But, as time passes, we begin to notice that the performance is decreasing dramatically. So, what has changed now? This question always bothers the mind and makes any simple task very specific or complex. Let's learn more about the reasons:

Too many startup programs

If your computer is taking longer booting time than before, there may be a lot of startup programs. As soon as you start your computer, these programs start automatically and keep running in the background reducing the overall performance of your computer system.

Typically, when you purchase or setup a computer system, there are only system apps and services with permission to run automatically at startup. But, many programs you install come with the option to run automatically on startup. Over time, you have a lot of programs at startup, which reduces overall performance and booting time.

However, some programs such as antivirus and firewall, etc. are required to run at startup.

Running out of disk space (SSD or HDD)

When the disk (hard disk drive or solid-state drive) memory is getting full, the system slows down. This is because a computer system needs a significant amount of free space to use swap files or virtual memory, prevent fragmentation, create temporary files, and many other things.

To ensure that your computer is not slow due to full drive storage, make sure that you do not fill it more than 95%.

Also Read: Difference between SSD and HDD

Animations and special visual effects

Windows and many other operating systems come with special visual effects such as animations and shadows, which slow down processing. However, you can use accordingly whether you like smooth performance or best appearance.

Unwanted temporary files

A computer can create many temporary files when you run a program. It also includes files that programs and operating systems use to store temporary data, such as programs that download files when installing software updates. These temporary files can be removed from the computer to free up space and improve performance.

Running multiple programs simultaneously

One of the biggest advantages of a computer is multitasking, which means that you can do multiple tasks at once. But, at some point, it can slow down your system performance. Depending on the amount of RAM you have, you can run many programs as long as there is free RAM. As soon as the RAM is full, your system will slow down considerably.

Apart from this, running multiple programs at the same time can also increase your CPU load. Because the operating system works harder and uses more CPU for memory management which results in a reduction in processing power.

Unnecessary background processes

This is one of the biggest factors slowing down your computer performance. As we discussed above, your system may contain unnecessary startup programs and activities that can slow down the overall speed of the system. 

Besides, some programs are also developed in such a way that they continue to run in the background even after being closed. They continue to use the RAM and processing power of computer systems unnecessarily.

Browser has too many add-ons/ plugins

If you install too many add-ons with your browser, you can slow down the overall browsing experience. Because the more add-ons you install, the more amount of RAM will be used. Some extensions can usefully enhance your web experience, but keeping too many of them will be a culprit in slowing down your system performance by consuming processing power and memory.

Also, many programs you install secretly install unwanted extensions. This may include search engines, ad-blockers, popup blockers, etc.

Using several tabs on browser

Sometimes, this can also be a reason why your computer is so slow. When you open multiple tabs in a browser, it is saved in RAM. If you do not have a sufficient amount of free RAM, you run out of room to process anything, resulting in a decrease in overall system performance.

Malware or Virus Attacks

Computer viruses can be another reason that can slow down your PC. Viruses, malware, and spyware can mess everything up, from deleting your files to opening your browser, taking you to phishing sites, hijacking your system, etc.

If your system is affected, you may notice some unusual activities such as auto advertisements, popups, auto launches of programs, etc. Such unwanted activities can lead to poor system performance as well as misuse of your data.

Also Read: Types of Computer Viruses

An overzealous antivirus

Your antivirus can run in the background and take a large amount of RAM and CPU. It is not recommended to shut down or stop running in the background as it is an important program to protect your privacy and data. However, the scheduling system scans overnight or when your computer is ideal may be a good option.

Computer system overheated

Make sure that your computer and processor do not heat too much. Because, when you use your system longer with heavy usage, it can overheat. When the heat level reaches its maximum level, the computer system slows down. This tends to reduce processor speed to help compensate for heat-related issues automatically. Sometimes, your system can reboot automatically due to overheating.

Besides, dust, dirt, or hair blockage can prevent air vents, resulting in an increase in system temperature. Make sure that you keep your system and its surroundings clean.

Running in power saver mode

Most laptops include the option to adjust power settings to control system performance and battery usage. It usually includes three features, such as "Balanced, Power Saver and High Performance". If your system is running in power saver mode, you may encounter problems with performance because your operating system reduces the speed of system components to provide increased battery backup rather than focusing on performance.

To maximize system performance, it is recommended to use a "high performance" mode with charging.

Computer needs to be rebooted

Sometimes, your computer system may simply ask to restart. This usually happens when the system has installed Windows Update or you have uninstalled any software and the system needs a restart to remove residual files or unnecessary registry files. If you use without restarting the system, you may notice a performance decrease.

In addition, there may be many system activities or background processes that are hung up for a myriad of reasons. Instead of searching and shutting down all processes one by one, it is better to restart the system to easily fix all of them. Rebooting a system fixes most problems.

Running out of RAM (Random Access Memory)

In most cases, your system slows down due to low RAM. If your system has less RAM, it is likely to work slowly as programs and system activities will not get the required amount of RAM. When RAM runs out, the system becomes too slow. In this situation, the computer system starts using disk space as virtual memory (swap memory) to balance performance.

Note: However, you can use disk space as virtual memory but upgrading RAM would be a better option as disk drives (HDD or SSD) are not as fast as RAM.

Also Read: Types of Computer Memory

Disk drive is failing

Disk drives have a lifetime. Slow working of a disk drive is a common problem at the end of its lifetime. The reason for this in most hard drives is because there are moving components inside the HDDs. If you leave them by mistake or they fall within the range of strong magnetic fields, it can lead to hard disk failure. 

Besides, solid-state drives do not face such issues as there are no moving parts inside them. However, it is stated that they have a lower number of R/W, resulting in shorter lifetimes than HDDs.

Read Detailed Guide: SSD vs HDD: Which is better?

Old or fragmented hard drive

Outdated or fragmented hard drives are also important factors that can significantly reduce the overall performance of your computer system. This is actually a disk condition in which files are stored in pieces scattered around the disk. In this case, the data is accessed from different parts of the disk (memory location) to be combined as a single file. At some point, it reduces the speed of the system as the overall time increases while reading the data.

Processor is outdated

Most programs receive frequent updates with more features included with them. The minimum requirements also change with each major update. But, you are trying to use programs with your old CPU that are no longer suitable to achieve smooth performance. It can perform at a slower rate with the same programs that worked properly before the update. In such situations, it is recommended to overclock or upgrade the processor.

How to fix a slow computer?

Now, you should already know the reason why your computer is so slow. The next thing you need to do is to fix those specific problems. 

For example:

• If your computer has too many startup programs, you can disable them accordingly.
• If your computer is running out of disk space, simply delete unwanted files. Disk cleanup may also be a good option.
• Try to use minimal animations and visual effects.
• Delete temporary files regularly.
• Check background processes using Task Manager and disable third-party programs or software accordingly. Avoid making changes to system processes.
• Keep browser plugins to a minimum and prefer a limited number of tabs at a time.
• Use good quality anti-virus with real-time protection. But make sure that it is not taking too much RAM or CPU. If this happens, better change your anti-virus.
• Make sure your computer does not heat up so much. If it does, check out its air vents.

There are a few other things to keep your computer system running at an optimal level. To read a detailed guide to fix a slow computer, you should see how to speed up computer?

Conclusion

Sometimes, it is easy to fix problems and speed up your computer. But this is possible only when there is a problem with settings or some other software related problem. But sometimes, you have no other option than to update the components/hardware of your computer system or go for whole new setup.

Please share this...

• 
• 
• 
• 

Full Form of LOVE: What is the meaning of LOVE?

Home

Full Forms

Full Form of LOVE

Have you ever wondered whether a LOVE is just a word of its own meaning, or is it a word that has a full form? Most people get confused about this question of LOVE Full Form. 

In this article, we have discussed and clarified the doubts about the full form of LOVE. Let's understand it:

What is the full form of LOVE?

The term ‘LOVE’ does not have any specific full form. This means love is not an acronym or abbreviation. Instead, it is a word of its own meaning. But people create different full forms of love accordingly for different situations. The widely used full form of LOVE is ‘Long-lasting Original Valuable Emotions’. 

The full form of LOVE can be segregated as:

L	Long-lasting
O	Original
V	Valuable
E	Emotions

Let us discuss other forms of LOVE that various people have created and are constantly using.

Other Forms of LOVE

As stated above, the most common full form of LOVE is ‘Long-lasting Original Valuable Emotions’. However, this is just a myth, and people create their own forms of love just like that. Some other forms of LOVE are as follows:

• Long Original Valuable Emotion

• Life’s Only Valuable Emotion

• Lack Of Valuable Education

• Loss Of Valuable Energy

• Life Of Very Emotional Person

• Land of sorrow Ocean of tears Valley of death End of life

• Lake of sorrow Ocean of tears Valley of death End of life

All of these are just hypothetical full forms of LOVE.

What is LOVE?

According to a definition, LOVE is one of the most intense feelings of deep affection without any limit and condition that we experience as human beings. Typically, love is expressed towards persons. However, it is not limited to persons or individuals and can be used for a variety of different things, states, and conditions. This can range from interpersonal affection to pleasure.

According to the ancient Greeks, LOVE can be expressed using seven words according to different states, which are listed below:

• Storage: Natural Affection

• Eros: Sexual or Erotica

• Ludus: Flirting

• Philia: Friendship

• Agape: Unconditional or Divine Love

• Philautia: Self Love

• Pragma: Committed, Married Love

What is True LOVE?

True love simply involves two people or a couple who enjoys company with each other. They both keep on standing in every joy and sorrow of each other. True love does not mean spending each and every minute with the person you love, but it means missing the person whenever he/she is far. True love is connected with each other for years of walking, spending quality time, caring for each other, etc., until death sets them apart.

What is the sensation of true love?

True love is doing something for making a person happy unconditionally. It involves respect, caring, sympathy, trust, honesty, forgiveness, and openness towards the person you love. You stand with the person in every situation, whether it is happiness, sorrow or struggle, etc.

How can you know if you are in love?

Whenever you are in love with someone, you will try to make the person happy in one way or another. You start feeling some kind of sympathy towards the person you love. The most important sign of love is when you start feeling the same feelings as your partner or the person you love. LOVE is not expressed simply by saying 'I love you' several times a day; instead, it is something that makes you feel cared about a person.

Few Examples of LOVE

The meaning and use of LOVE changes for different people and different circumstances. This means that the word may have a different meaning when expressing a relationship with a mother, and may have a different meaning when used for a wife, children, and other individuals. It can also be used for various entities, such as food, electronic devices, activity, etc.

The following sentences can give us a quick overview of how we can use this word in our conversations from different perspectives:

Sentence 1: I love my father. (For a person)
Sentence 2: I love my laptop. (For a device)
Sentence 3: I love swimming. (For an activity)
Sentence 4: I love the burger. (For food)
Sentence 5: I love snowfall. (For nature)

Scroll ⇀

Summary

This article simply makes it clear that the term 'LOVE' is not an acronym, and there is no definitive full form of love. However, there are some imaginary forms of love that people use as per their choices.

---

What others reading:

• • OK Full Form
• • OP Full Form
• • COMPUTER Full Form
• • WIFI Full Form
• • USB Full Form
• • LCD Full Form
• • URL Full Form
• • WWW Full Form

What others reading:

• OK Full Form	• OP Full Form
• COMPUTER Full Form	• WIFI Full Form
• WWW Full Form	• LCD Full Form
• USB Full Form	• URL Full Form

---

Please share this...

• 
• 
• 
• 

Types of Cybercrime

Home

What is Cybercrime

Types of Cyber Crime

Cybercrime is commonly called a computer-oriented criminal activity that either uses or targets a network, computer system, or network device. It is constantly evolving with new threats coming up every year. In order to keep you safe from cybercrime, it is necessary to have knowledge about the types of cybercrime.

In this article, we have defined the most common types of cybercrime. This article will help you to know what kind of dangers you should know about protecting yourself in the online medium. 

Categories of Cybercrime

Cybercrime can be divided into the following three categories:

Crime against Individual

This category of cybercrime usually involves one person that might be distributing malicious software or suspicious information online. Apart from this, crimes against individuals might include identity theft, cyber harassment, staling, spoofing, distribution of child pornography, credit card fraud, etc.

Crime against Property

This category of cybercrime includes crimes that occur against property, such as a computer or a network. Cybercriminals might steal a person's bank or credit card details, gain access to funds, make online purchases, or perform phishing attacks to retrieve a person's information, etc. These crimes usually include hacking, DDoS attacks, cyber and typosquatting, virus distribution, copyright infringement, etc.

Crime against Government

This category of cybercrime includes crimes that occur against the government. These crimes are the most serious offense. It is also referred to as Cyber Terrorism. Typically, these crimes are committed by the terrorists or by the governments of enemy nations. These crimes include accessing confidential information, hacking, cyber warfare, pirated software, etc.

Types of Cybercrime

There are various types of cybercrime, but all such types of cybercrime fall into the following three situations:

• Crime in which the computer acts as a weapon
• Crime in which computer is an accessory to a crime
• Crime in which the computing device is the target

These are the situations that form the type of cybercrime. These crimes distinguish cybercrimes from traditional crimes.

Let’s discuss the most common types of cybercrime:

• List of Cybercrime Types [Show/ Hide List]
  • • Phishing
  • • Hacking
  • • Computer Viruses
  • • Ransomware
  • • DDoS Attacks
  • • Botnets
  • • Cyberstalking
  • • Identity Theft
  • • PUPs
  • • Social Engineering
  • • Online Scams/ Frauds
  • • Exploit Kits
  • • Prohibited/ Illegal Content
  • • Spamming
  • • Malvertising
  • • Software Piracy
  • • Cyberbullying

Phishing

A phishing attack involves attackers sending several spam mails having malicious attachments or links. Once a receiver clicks on a link, he/she may be redirected to a malicious site asking the receiver to respond with confidential details, such as login credentials, billing information, etc. This type of attack may also take place through text messages, websites, or even social media platforms. 

Hacking

Hacking is a type of cybercrime act where an intruder gets access to a few or complete functions within a system without your permission. Hackers (people who perform hacking) are tending to be computer programmers and they have an advanced understanding of computers. However, they misuse this knowledge for performing illegal activities, such as accessing corporate and government accounts, and stealing their financial data or other important information. 

Computer Viruses

A computer virus is one of the most destructive types of attacks where cybercriminals gain unauthorized access to the system and steal personal information and other important data. Mostly, computer viruses are attached to infected software that spreads across other installed software. Viruses can come to your system through removable devices and the internet. Without proper scanning and removing them from your system, the next time you start your system, the viruses will run all over again.

Recommended: Types of Computer Viruses

Ransomware

Ransomware is one of the most popular types of malware-based attacks. It enters through a computer network on a local machine and encrypts files using public-key encryption. That means you cannot access encrypted files and the information stored in them. The cybercriminal will then ask for ransom (money) to unlock the files and give your data back.

DDoS Attacks

The DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attack is a blatant attempt by cybercriminals to take down a system or network temporarily or completely. This overwhelms a system with multiple connections requests that it cannot handle. Additionally, there may be spam traffic coming from various sources. This eventually leads to server overload. DDoS attacks are used as a distraction technique to allow cybercriminals to hack into the system meanwhile. 

Botnets

Botnets are networks from comprised computers that are controlled externally by remote attackers, known as ‘Bot Herders'. The attackers target other computers and send spams or malware by using these botnets. This type of cybercrime is usually performed against businesses and governments because botnets mainly target the entire IT infrastructure.  

Cyberstalking

This type of cybercrime involves a person being followed by the cybercriminal online. The stalker will follow the target person virtually, including all the activities. Then, the stalker might harass the victim by using social media platforms, mails, or websites, etc. Cyberstalkers first try to know their victims as much as possible and then make them feel afraid or concerned regarding their safety. In most cases, this type of cybercrime is committed against women and children by individual men and pedophiles.

Identity Theft

Identity theft is a specific type of cybercrime in which attackers gain access to the victim's personal information, including passwords, financial accounts, credit cards, and other confidential information. In most cases, cybercriminals use these details to steal money from your accounts, without your knowledge. Additionally, cybercriminals may use your details to commit a crime or claim government benefits, making others think it was you. 

PUPs

PUPs is an acronym for 'Potentially Unwanted Programs'. These are not considered much threatening as compared to other types of cybercrime. These are nothing but a type of malware program that uninstalls important software from your computer system automatically. In addition, PUPs can also remove or change your default search engines within the browsers. They can involve adware and spyware; therefore, it’s a good practice to make use of an antivirus program to prevent any malicious download.

Social Engineering

This type of cybercrime involves criminals making direct contact with the victim through phone, emails, or even in person. Cybercriminals first try to earn trust and then they steal confidential information like passwords, financial accounts data, etc. In most cases, cybercriminals act like a customer service agent of any legitimate company and ask for the important information. Once they get the desired information, they might sell your information or try to steal money from your accounts. 

Online Scams/Frauds

These are crimes that involve spam advertisements or emails offering large rewards or high amounts of money. These offers are presented in such a way that they look very real. Once users click on these malicious advertisements or links, the malware reaches their system and compromises the information.

Exploit Kits

Exploit kits are readymade tools designed by advanced programmers. These tools include vulnerability (bug in codes of the program) that helps gain access to a victim's computer once deployed. Cybercriminals can purchase exploit kits online and use them against different users. The exploit kits receive frequent upgrades just like the other software. These kits are usually purchased via dark web hacking forums.

Prohibited/Illegal Content

This is a specific type of cybercrime that includes the sharing of offensive and inappropriate content over virtual platforms. Cybercriminals distribute offensive materials to make people feel hatred against other people, religions, or countries, etc. Offensive content can include but is not limited to, videos of criminal activities, sexual activities between adults, videos with intense violence, etc. Additionally, it can also contain illegal contents like terrorism supported materials or child exploitation materials.

Spamming

This cybercrime involves criminals using electronic messaging systems to send messages to users. These messages usually consist of malware, fake links of websites, and other malicious software. Email spamming is one of the common spamming methods in which bulk messages are sent to large numbers of users. These messages include deals, and promos from trusted companies to attract users to click on the attachments or the fake links.

Malvertising

Malvertising involves criminals filling websites with several advertisements containing malicious codes or links. Once users click on these advertisements, they will be redirected to fake websites that look like trusted ones. Users will submit the personal details, thinking they are legitimate. This information will further reach to the attackers. Furthermore, the websites can automatically start downloading files containing viruses and other malware. 

Software Piracy

There are many websites that reproduce original content such as songs, movies, books, games, and other software. It falls under the Cybercrime Act as it translates to copyright infringement. Software piracy greatly affects companies and developers as duplicate products lead to huge reductions in their total income.

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is one of the biggest crimes occurring in the virtual world. It is a form of bullying on the Internet. However, global leaders are aware of this crime and pass laws and enactments that prevent the spread of cyber-attack.

How to Fight Cybercrime

At present, almost all the devices (such as smartphones, tablets, and computers) are connected to the internet. Cybercriminals may use a device to gain access to personal information, business information, confidential government information, etc. Therefore, it is necessary to have knowledge about preventive measures that can be taken to fight against cybercrime.

The following are some tips that will help you protect your computer and your personal data:

• Make use of Anti-virus software and keep it updated.
• Keep the operating system and other installed software updated.
• Do not install software from untrusted sources.
• Be cautious while browsing the website.
• Make sure that websites are safe and genuine before you enter any credentials.
• Always use strong passwords with 14+ characters, including upper case, lower case, and numbers.
• Flag and report suspicious emails and do not open any attachments.
• Do not click on any unfamiliar links or ads.
• Do not share suspicious information via digital means unless you are completely sure that it is safe.
• Use a VPN service whenever possible.
• Keep on tracking your bank statements and other financial accounts.

Conclusion

There can be various ways and types of cybercrime that attackers can use. The only way to protect yourself is to educate yourself about various types of cybercrime and how you can prevent them. Once you are a victim of cybercrime, there is no easy way to get rid of it. 

---

What others reading:

• • What is Cybercrime
• • What is HTTP
• • What is HTTPS
• • Types of Computer Viruses

---

Please share this...

• 
• 
• 
• 

Difference Between Soap and Detergent

Home

Differences

Difference Between Soap and Detergent

Soaps and detergents are both cleaning products that help clean or remove dirt, germs, and other unwanted particles from the human body and other surfaces. Because both are used for cleaning purposes, people often get confused between these two cleaners and use these terms interchangeably. However, in reality, there are significant differences between soaps and detergents.

Before discussing the difference between soap and detergent, let’s have a quick overview of both:

What is Soap?

Soaps are prepared by the reaction of alkali (i.e., sodium hydroxide) with naturally occurring fatty acids. This reaction helps to produce sodium salts of the fatty acids used, which ultimately makes cleaning more efficient by allowing water to remove greasy stains from surfaces. The soap's primary ingredients are natural, such as vegetable oils and animal fats. However, major-branded soaps may contain additional chemicals for particular colors and fragrances.

The first and most common process of soap production is the saponification of oils and fats. The second method involves neutralizing fatty acids with alkali. Since soaps are natural, they can also be made at home using clean glycerine, essential oils, herbs, and some spices, etc. In addition, soaps are biodegradable due to natural ingredients. This means they are comparatively less harmful to the environment than traditional synthetic cleansing products.

Characteristics of Soap

The following are the main characteristics of Soap:

• Soap is defined as potassium or sodium salts of carboxylic acids, which are accompanied by a long aliphatic chain.

• Soaps are generally called surfactants; this means that they can help reduce the surface tension between the liquid and other substances. It is beneficial in the process of emulsification of various oils in water. 

• Soap is mainly produced using the saponification process between fats and oils.

• The two ends of the soap molecule, the carboxylate end, and the hydrocarbon end, are hydrophilic and hydrophobic.

What is Detergent?

A detergent is usually defined as a surfactant or the combination of multiple surfactants having cleaning properties in a dilute solution with water. Like soaps, detergents are also called amphiphilic, which means that they also contain hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions. In most cases, detergents are akylbenzenefulfonates. Detergents tend to easily get dissolved in hard water because detergents sulfonate does not attach to calcium and other ions in hard water.

Typically, detergents are produced by mixing different chemical compounds; then by heating the mixture and following certain measures, the powder is dried in detergent form. The produced detergents can then be used for several years. The chemical compounds used in the production of detergents usually include from Dioxide, Phosphates, and Surfactants (commonly used by mainstream detergent manufacturers) to Salt and Citric Acid. To produce detergent in liquid form, the mixture contains a high amount of water.

Characteristics of Detergent

The following are the main characteristics of Detergent:

• Detergents are defined as potassium or sodium salts of a long alkyl chain with a sulfonate group at the end.

• Detergents are known for their easy soluble property in hard water.

• The sulfonate group present in the detergent does not attach itself to hard water ions, making it soluble in hard water.

• Anionic detergents like alkyl benzene sulfonates are commonly used for domestic purposes.

Soap vs Detergent: Key Differences

Let’s discuss some major differences between soaps and detergents:

• When it comes to production, soaps are prepared using natural ingredients while detergents are synthetic, man-made derivatives.

• The molecule of soap is usually a carboxylate ion while common detergents often consist of phosphate or sulfate head-groups (sodium dodecyl sulfate).

• Soaps do not easily dissolve in hard water. Detergents, on the other hand, dissolve easily in hard water.

• Soap allows cleaning for limited applications, while detergents can be produced according to a variety of cleaning applications.

• Soap has a weak cleansing action, while detergents have a better and stronger cleansing action.

• The head-group of the soap molecule is a typical carboxylate anion. However, common detergents often use phosphate or sulfate head-groups (e.g., sodium dodecyl sulfate).

Difference Between Soap and Detergent

Let’s discuss the difference between soap and detergent with the help of the following comparison chart:

Soap	Detergent
Soap is sodium or potassium of a carboxylic acid that is attached to a long aliphatic chain.	Detergent is usually a sodium or potassium salts of a long alkyl chain that terminates with a sulfonate group.
Soaps are produced using natural ingredients, such as vegetable oils and animal fats.	Detergents are produced using synthetic resources, such as hydrocarbons of coal or petroleum.
Since soaps are prepared using natural ingredients, they are easily biodegradable.	Some detergents are biodegradable. Detergents containing branched hydrocarbon chains are not easily biodegradable.
Soaps usually take time to get dissolved in water.	Detergents take less time and dissolve faster in water.
Soaps do not dissolve in hard water and saline water. That is why soaps are not effective in hard water.	Detergents tend to get dissolved in both soft water and hard water. This makes detergents effective in both types of water.
Soaps typically form scum when used in a hard water environment.	Detergents include compounds that do not form scum issue in any type of water.
Soaps are not much reactive and have weak cleansing action.	Detergents are more reactive and have strong cleansing action.
Soap is said to be environmentally friendly.	Detergents are compounds that can form thick foam that causes the death of aquatic life.
Soap can sometimes cause skin irritation.	Detergents do not usually cause skin irritation.
Soaps are used for limited cleaning applications, such as body parts.	Detergents are used for a variety of cleaning applications, such as laundry, dishwashing, and other types of surface cleaning.
Some of the most common examples of soap include sodium stearate, sodium palmitate, and sodium oleate.	Some of the most common examples of detergents include deoxycholic acid and sodium lauryl sulfate.

How does a cleaning process for soaps and detergents work?

The concept of a cleaning process is almost the same for both soaps and detergents. We can explain step by step process of cleaning using the following four points:

• First, the surface or a body that needs to be cleaned is moistened using water.

• Next, soap or detergent is applied to the surface that is absorbed. Because both soaps and detergents are known as surfactants (or surface-active agents), the surface-active molecules that exist in soaps and detergents dissolve in water. This ultimately helps to weaken the surface tension, the applied force, that attaches molecules to a surface. As a result, water is easily spread on a surface or soaked in a cloth.

• When the surface is rubbed, dirt particles present on the surface break down as surface-active molecules work to separate the dirt from the surface and attach them to the water. The same rule works with clothes.

• At last, dirt particles are coated with molecules of soap or detergent, preventing them from re-attaching to the surface. This eventually causes dirt particles to be suspended in water until the dirt is completely washed away. 

Summary

Both soap and detergent are intended to help clean up, but there are differences in their production process and quality of cleaning. While soaps are based on natural ingredients, detergents are prepared with synthetics and are man-made derivatives.

---

What others reading:

• • Difference Between SSD and HDD
• • Difference Between Compiler and Interpreter
• • Difference Between HTTP and HTTPS

---

Please share this...

• 
• 
• 
•