How do amphoteric detergents change their behavior when the pH changes?

Amphoteric detergents, also known as ampholytic detergents, are unique surface-active agents because their electrical charge is dependent on the pH of the solution in which they are dissolved.1

Their behavior changes based on the acidity or alkalinity of the environment:

• In acidic conditions: These detergents act as cationic detergents, producing electrically positive ions in the solution.1
• In alkaline conditions: They behave as anionic detergents, producing electrically negative colloidal ions.1

This ability to switch between anionic and cationic characteristics allows them to adapt their chemical behavior to the specific pH of the wash environment.1