Final Answer:
Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, hindering shampoo lathering. In contrast, soft water lacks these minerals, allowing for more effective lathering. So Option B is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hard water, characterized by elevated mineral content, particularly calcium and magnesium ions, hinders the lathering ability of shampoo. The minerals in hard water react with soap molecules, forming insoluble compounds that reduce lathering and can leave a residue on hair and skin.
In contrast, soft water, which has a lower mineral content, allows for more efficient lathering and rinsing, leading to improved cleansing results. Water softening methods, such as ion exchange or reverse osmosis, are often employed to alleviate the challenges associated with hard water in household and industrial settings. So the correct option is B.