Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology Detergents differ from soaps in that: their ionically charged heads are derivatives of sulfur they can be broken down by microorganisms detergents are human-made while soaps are produced naturally detergents are less able to penetrate grease than soaps Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself A Correct answer Explanation Detergents contain sulfonate groups (sulfur derivatives) in their hydrophilic heads, while soaps use carboxylate groups. Both are biodegradable, soaps can be synthetically produced, and detergents actually penetrate grease better than soaps.