HLB value is a measure to categorize surfactants based on balance between hydrophilic and lipophilic properties.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. It measures molecular weight
• D. It applies only to lipids

Answer: (B)

The main concept here is the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of a surfactant. The HLB value is a numerical measure of how hydrophilic (water-loving) versus lipophilic (oil-loving) a surfactant molecule is. This balance helps predict how the surfactant will behave at interfaces and which type of emulsion it will stabilize. A higher HLB means the molecule is more hydrophilic, making it more suitable for stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions; a lower HLB means it is more lipophilic, favoring water-in-oil emulsions. It is not related to molecular weight, and the concept applies to many surfactants, not just lipids. This is why the statement is true.