Tripolyphosphate is added to detergents as _______

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Tripolyphosphate**: Tripolyphosphate is a chemical compound commonly used in various applications, including detergents.

2. **Function of Tripolyphosphate in Detergents**: The primary role of tripolyphosphate in detergents is to act as a water softener.

3. **Hard Water Issue**: Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium ions, which can interfere with the effectiveness of detergents. When detergents are used in hard water, these ions can react with the detergent, forming insoluble compounds known as scum.

4. **Mechanism of Action**: Tripolyphosphate works by binding to the calcium and magnesium ions in hard water. This prevents these ions from precipitating and forming scum, thus allowing the detergent to work more effectively.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, tripolyphosphate is added to detergents primarily as a water softener.

**Final Answer**: Tripolyphosphate is added to detergents as a **water softener**.

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