Colloids

Colloids

A colloid is a heterogeneous mixture containing particles that are intermediate in size, between those of a solution and those of a suspension. The particles in a colloid cannot be seen even with a microscope and if left undisturbed they do not settle. The properties of a colloid are intermediate between those of a solution and those of a suspension.

Examples of colloids:

  1. Smoke in air is a collide of a solid in a gas also known as a solid aerosol.
  2. Fog an aerosol sprays in air are colloids of a liquid dispersed in a gas also known as liquid aerosols.
  3. Milk and mayonnaise are colloids of a liquid dispersed in a liquid also known as emulsions.
  4. Gelatin and jelly are colloids of a solid dispersed in a liquid also known as gels.