Distinguish between the true solution and colloidal solution.
Hint: In a true solution, the particle size of the solute in the solvent is under 1nm. In a colloidal solution, however, the particle size of the dissolved substance ranges from 1 to 1000nm, which is significantly larger than that in a true solution.
Here is a detailed, step-by-step answer outlining the differences between a true solution and a colloidal solution:
True Solution |
Colloidal Solution |
1. True solutions are the mixtures in which the solute and the solvent mix properly in the liquid phase. | 1. Colloidal solutions are the mixtures in which the solute is uniformly distributed in the solvent. |
2. It is a homogenous solution. | 2. It is a heterogeneous solution. |
3. The size of the particles is less than 1nm. | 3. The size of the particles is 1-1000nm. |
4. The diffusion of the particle in this solution is smooth and simple through parchment and filter paper as well. | 4. The particles of the colloidal solutions do not diffuse through the parchment paper but it does pass through filter paper. |
5. The particles of true solution does not sediment. | 5. The particles of a colloid might sediments sometimes. |
6. The particle of the true solution are invisible to naked eye. | 6. The particles of the colloidal solution are visible through an electron microscope, but not through naked eye. |
7. It is a transparent solution. | 7. It is a translucent solution. |
8. True solutions do show Tyndall effect. | 8. Tyndall effect is shown by the colloids in their colloidal solution. |
9. Example: Sugar solution in water | 9. Example: Starch dissolved in water. |
Note: Particles in both true solutions and colloidal solutions cannot be separated from the solvent, unlike in a suspension. Additionally, both exhibit Brownian motion.