What is a Colloidal Solution?
A colloidal solution is defined as a heterogeneous mixture where the particle size is too small to be perceived individually with the naked eye, typically ranging from 1 nm to 1 µm. Despite their homogenous appearance, these solutions exhibit unique properties due to the dispersion of particles, which remain suspended in a medium and do not settle out over time. The Tyndall effect demonstrates the scattering of light by colloidal particles, making the path of a beam of light visible when it passes through.
Colloidal solutions are classified based on the state of the dispersed phase and the dispersion medium, and they have critical applications in both daily life and industries. Examples include milk (an emulsion with fat as the dispersed phase in water) and fog (liquid droplets dispersed in gas). Understanding colloids is essential for various scientific fields, including chemistry and materials science.