Associated colloids are substances that behave as normal electrolytes in solution at low concentration but exhibit colloidal properties at higher concentration. These colloidal systems are also known as micelles.

Associated colloids are formed by surfactant molecules, which have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions. At low concentrations, the surfactant molecules are dispersed as individual molecules in the solvent and behave as normal electrolytes. They can conduct electricity and do not exhibit any colloidal properties.

However, as the concentration of surfactant molecules increases, they start to interact with each other due to the hydrophobic effect. The hydrophobic regions of the surfactant molecules tend to aggregate together to minimize their contact with water molecules. This results in the formation of micelles.

The micelles are spherical structures with the hydrophobic regions of the surfactant molecules in the interior and the hydrophilic regions on the surface. The surfactant molecules arrange themselves in such a way that the hydrophobic regions are shielded from the surrounding water molecules.

The formation of micelles leads to the colloidal properties of associated colloids. The micelles are stable and can be dispersed in the solvent for a long time. They exhibit properties such as Brownian motion, Tyndall effect, and can scatter light. The size of the micelles can vary depending on the concentration of the surfactant molecules and the nature of the solvent.

Associated colloids have important applications in various industries such as detergents, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. They are used to solubilize hydrophobic substances, stabilize emulsions, and enhance the delivery of drugs.

In conclusion, associated colloids are substances that behave as normal electrolytes at low concentration but exhibit colloidal properties at higher concentration. They are formed by surfactant molecules and form stable micelles in solution. These micelles exhibit colloidal properties and have various applications in different industries.