Question

What kind of mixture is a solution? A suspension? A colloid?

Answer 1

Solutions are homogeneous mixtures with small, non-settling particles, suspensions are heterogeneous with larger particles that may settle, and colloids have intermediate-sized particles that remain dispersed without settling.

Step-by-step explanation:

A solution is a homogeneous mixture with small particles, such as ions or molecules, that do not settle upon standing. A classic example is saltwater, which is clear and in which the salt is fully dissolved. A suspension is a heterogeneous mixture containing larger particles, around 1000 nm in diameter, that can eventually settle out, like mud in water. On the other hand, a colloid has particles ranging from 2 to 500 nm; these particles remain dispersed and do not settle, such as milk.

Each mixture type has unique properties. Suspensions like mud water are cloudy and particles can be seen with some magnification, whereas solutions are transparent without any visible particles. Colloids display the Tyndall effect which scatters light, a property due to their intermediate-sized particles.

Answer 2

A solution is a homogeneous mixture.

A suspension is a heterogeneous mixture.

A colloidal mixture is a dispersion.

In order to be called a colloid, the dispersed particles must be between 1 nm and 1000 nm in size. If the size is less than 1 nm, the mixture is called a solution. If the size is greater than 1000 nm, the mixture is called a suspension.