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Is fog a colloid?

Published in Colloid Chemistry 1 min read

Yes, fog is considered a colloid.

Fog as a Colloid Explained

According to Flexi Says, fog is considered a colloid because it consists of tiny water droplets suspended in air. In a colloid, one substance (in this case, water) is evenly dispersed in another substance (air) without settling out. This even dispersion is a key characteristic of colloids.

  • Dispersed Phase: Water droplets
  • Dispersion Medium: Air

Characteristics of Colloids

Colloids, like fog, exhibit specific characteristics:

  • Particle Size: Colloid particles are larger than those in a solution but smaller than those in a suspension.
  • Light Scattering: Colloids scatter light (Tyndall effect), making a light beam visible when passed through them.
  • Stability: Colloid particles remain dispersed and do not settle out easily due to various factors like Brownian motion and electrostatic repulsion.

Examples of Other Colloids

Besides fog, other common examples of colloids include:

  • Milk
  • Smoke
  • Paint
  • Jelly

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