Read the Assertion and Reason below and choose the correct option. — Surface Chemistry Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

In aqueous solution, sodium stearate forms micelles where the hydrophobic hydrocarbon tails point inwards towards the core, and the hydrophilic carboxylate (–COO⁻) groups face outward at the surface to interact with water. Furthermore, sodium stearate acts as a surfactant, which reduces the surface tension of water. Both statements are correct, but the reduction in surface tension is not the reason for the specific structural orientation of the micelle. Therefore, correct answer is B.