Chapter 15, Problem 55A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: A solution, a colloid, and a suspension need to be distinguished.

Concept Introduction: A solution is a homogenous mixture of two or more substances. Here, the size of particles is in the range of 0.01-1 nm. A colloid can be defined as a heterogeneous substance (non-crystalline) where large molecules or particles of a substance are dispersed through another substance. In a colloid, particles do not settle and the separation of particles of one substance from other cannot be done by filtering or centrifuging process. A suspension is a heterogenous mixture where particles can settle out from the mixture if it is standing undisturbed. The size of particles in a suspension is larger than those of a solution. Since different substances in the mixture are not uniformly distributed, thus, suspensions are considered to be heterogenous mixtures.

Explanation of Solution

The differences between a solution, a colloid, and a suspension can be represented as follows:

Solution	Colloid	Suspension
Homogenous	Heterogenous	Heterogeneous
Size of particles ranges from 0.01-1 nm.	Size of particles ranges from 1-1000 nm.	Size of the particles is above 1000 nm.
Does not show Tyndall effect or does not scatter light.	It shows Tyndall effect.	Can show Tyndall effect
The particles cannot be separated by filtration method.	The particles cannot be separated by filtration method.	Can be separated by filtration.
Particles do not get separated on standing.	Particles do not get separated on standing.	Particles do get settled out.