Final answer:
Brownian motion can distinguish between a solution and a colloid because it is present in colloids where the larger particles move randomly, while it is not detectable in solutions with much smaller particles.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, the presence of Brownian motion can help distinguish between a solution and a colloid. In a colloid, the dispersed particles are larger and exhibit Brownian motion, which is random and chaotic due to collisions with molecules in the dispersion medium. This can often be observed under a light microscope, where colloidal particles scintillate, reflecting brief flashes of light. This phenomenon provides nearly direct evidence for the existence of atoms.
On the other hand, solutions contain particles that are too small to be seen and do not display Brownian motion. This important distinction is due to the difference in particle size between colloids and solutions. Further investigation of the motion and interactions of particles provides insights into the behavior and properties of matter at the microscopic level.