An emulsifier helps mix oil and water by acting as a stabilizer or surfactant that allows components which naturally separate to combine.
Understanding Emulsifiers
According to the reference provided, an emulsifier is defined as a stabilizer or a surfactant specifically used for aqueous solutions. The term "aqueous" is a scientific word for liquid.
The Role of Emulsifiers in Mixing
Substances like oil and water typically do not mix; they separate into distinct layers. An emulsifier overcomes this natural separation. By acting as a stabilizer or surfactant, the emulsifier helps components that normally do not mix to combine and remain dispersed within each other.
In essence, the emulsifier bridges the gap between the oil and water molecules, preventing them from separating and allowing them to form a stable mixture, known as an emulsion.
