How does soap help water wash away grease?

Answer: Its molecules surround grease with water-friendly surfaces

It turns grease molecules directly into water molecules — Soap does not change grease molecules into water molecules. It helps oil disperse in water by surrounding it with molecules that interact with both. Cleaning can move a substance without chemically converting it into something else.

Its molecules surround grease with water-friendly surfaces ✓ — Soap molecules have an oil-attracting end and a water-attracting end. They gather around grease with the water-attracting parts facing outward, helping disperse it in the wash water. Rubbing loosens the dirt, and rinsing carries it away.

It heats the grease until it evaporates from the surface — Soap does not clean by heating grease until it evaporates. Its molecular structure helps water carry grease away, even without hot water. Washing removes dirt and many microbes; it is not a guarantee of instant sterilization.