micelle
/maɪˈsɛl/
noun
- A tiny cluster of molecules that forms in a liquid, with one end attracted to water and the other end attracted to oil or dirt, often used in soaps and cleansers.
- In chemistry class, we learned how micelles help detergents clean clothes in cold water.
- Each micelle has a water-loving outer shell and a water-hating inner core that grabs oil.
- Soap works by forming micelles that trap grease and allow it to be rinsed away with water.