A colloid is a stable system of small particles suspended or dispersed in another substance, without being soluble in it. The substance in which the particles are uniformly dispersed is called the dispersion medium, which is in finely divided state.
Colloidal particles are extremely small and light; they do not settle readily under gravity. Either of the phases can be in the solid, liquid or gaseous state. The particles are usually called the dispersed phase and the dispersion medium is called the continuous phase. The particles carry a charge, which prevents coagulation or clumping of the particles.
The size of a colloidal particle is approximately 0.001 micron to 1 micron in any dimension. Two of the most common examples of colloids are milk and smoke.
Colloidal particles are extremely small and light; they do not settle readily under gravity. Either of the phases can be in the solid, liquid or gaseous state. The particles are usually called the dispersed phase and the dispersion medium is called the continuous phase. The particles carry a charge, which prevents coagulation or clumping of the particles.
The size of a colloidal particle is approximately 0.001 micron to 1 micron in any dimension. Two of the most common examples of colloids are milk and smoke.
