Which of the following statement is true for colloids?a)Colloid is a h...
Colloids: Particles that scatter light
Definition of Colloids
A colloid is a type of mixture in which tiny particles are suspended in a medium, creating a cloudy or milky appearance. The particles in a colloid are larger than those in a solution but smaller than those in a suspension. The particles in a colloid do not settle down due to gravity and remain dispersed throughout the medium.
Characteristics of Colloids
Colloids have several distinct characteristics that differentiate them from other types of mixtures, such as solutions and suspensions. One of the key characteristics of colloids is that the particles are not visible to the naked eye.
Scattering of Light
When light passes through a colloid, the particles present in the colloid scatter the light in different directions. This scattering of light is known as the Tyndall effect. The Tyndall effect is responsible for the visibility of the particles in a colloid. The particles in a colloid are larger than the molecules in a solution, which allows them to scatter light.
Explanation of the Correct Answer
The correct answer to the question is option 'C' - "Particles of a colloid scatter a beam of light passing through it." This statement is true because the scattering of light is a characteristic property of colloids. When a beam of light passes through a colloid, the particles present in the colloid scatter the light, making the particles visible and giving the colloid a cloudy or milky appearance.
Other Statements
The other statements mentioned in the options are not entirely true:
- Option 'A' - "Colloid is a homogeneous mixture" is incorrect because colloids are actually heterogeneous mixtures. In a homogeneous mixture, the composition is uniform throughout, whereas in a colloid, the particles are not uniformly distributed.
- Option 'B' - "Particles of a colloid can be seen by the naked eye" is incorrect because the particles in a colloid are too small to be seen without the help of a microscope or other magnifying tools.
Therefore, the only true statement regarding colloids is option 'C', which highlights the scattering of light by the particles in a colloid.