What is "washing powder"?

Washing powder, also known as laundry powder, is a type of cleaning agent that is used for washing clothes in a washing machine or by hand. It is made up of various chemicals and substances that help to remove dirt, stains, and odors from clothes. Typically, washing powder contains surfactants, which are compounds that reduce the surface tension of water and help to loosen dirt and grime from fabrics. It may also contain enzymes, which are biological molecules that help to break down organic stains like blood and grass. In addition, washing powder may contain optical brighteners, which are chemicals that help to make clothes appear brighter and whiter by absorbing invisible ultraviolet light and reflecting it back as visible blue light.