Solutions, Suspensions, & Colloids

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What is a solution?

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A homogeneous mixture of two or more substances where one substance (the solute) is dissolved in another (the solvent).

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What is a colloid?

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A mixture where tiny particles of one substance are dispersed throughout another substance, but are not dissolved. Examples include fog and milk.

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What is a suspension?

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A heterogeneous mixture in which solid particles are suspended in a liquid or gas and can settle over time, such as muddy water.

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What is hydrochloric acid?

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A strong acid commonly used in laboratories and industry, with the chemical formula HCl.

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What is acetic acid?

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A colorless liquid organic compound with a pungent smell, commonly known as vinegar, with the chemical formula CH3COOH.

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What is phosphoric acid?

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An inorganic acid with the chemical formula H3PO4, used in fertilizers and food flavoring.

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What distinguishes a solution from a colloid?

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In a solution, the solute is completely dissolved, while in a colloid, the particles remain suspended and do not settle.

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What are the characteristics of a colloid?

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Colloids exhibit the Tyndall effect, have particles that do not settle, and can appear cloudy or opaque.

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What is the Tyndall effect?

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The scattering of light by particles in a colloid, which makes the path of the light beam visible.

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What is the role of a solvent in a solution?

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The solvent is the substance that dissolves the solute, typically present in a greater amount.