A series of esters of the general formula RCH(SO3Na)-CO2R′ of 14–19 carbon atoms prepared by the α-sulfonation of propionic, butyric, pelargonic, lauric, myristic, palmitie, and stearic acids and esterification with normal primary alcohols were compared for critical micelle concentration, surface and interfacial tension, Ca++stability, wetting properties, foam height, detergency, and lime soap dispersing properties. Comparison of position isomers showed that as the hydrophilic portion moved from the center toward either end, cmc and wetting efficiency decreased, surface and interfacial tension increased, and Ca++stability and lime soap dispersing properties impr