Particle size and scattering of light

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SUMMARY

Colloidal particles scatter light due to their larger size compared to the particles in a true solution. True solution particles, which are typically molecules, are significantly smaller than the wavelength of visible light, preventing them from scattering. This fundamental difference in particle size is the reason why colloidal solutions exhibit the Tyndall effect, while true solutions do not. Understanding this distinction is crucial for applications in fields such as chemistry and materials science.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of colloidal chemistry
  • Knowledge of particle size and its relation to light scattering
  • Familiarity with the Tyndall effect
  • Basic principles of light and wavelength
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Tyndall effect in detail
  • Explore the differences between colloidal solutions and true solutions
  • Study the principles of light scattering and its applications
  • Investigate methods for measuring particle size in colloidal systems
USEFUL FOR

Chemists, materials scientists, and students studying colloidal systems or light-matter interactions will benefit from this discussion.

gracy
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particle size and scattering of light

why colloidal particles scatter light while particles of true solution do not?Colloidal particles are larger than particle of true solution right?So larger particle can scatter light while smaller can not,right?
 
Last edited:
Science news on Phys.org
True solution particles are molecules, much smaller than the wavelength of visible light.
 

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