What are biodegradable and non-biodegradable detergents? Give one example of each.

(N/A) Detergents that can be degraded by microorganisms (bacteria) are called biodegradable detergents. These detergents typically possess straight hydrocarbon chains,which are easily broken down by bacteria. Example: $Sodium \ lauryl \ sulphate$.
Detergents that cannot be easily degraded by microorganisms are called non-biodegradable detergents. These detergents possess highly branched hydrocarbon chains,which hinder bacterial action. Example: $Sodium \ 4-(1,3,5,7-tetramethyloctyl) \ benzene \ sulphonate$.