Highly stable lyophilic sols, such as heavily hydrated gelatin, are frequently added to extremely sensitive lyophobic sols like gold sol in commercial preparations. What is the precise physicochemical

Question

Highly stable lyophilic sols, such as heavily hydrated gelatin, are frequently added to extremely sensitive lyophobic sols like gold sol in commercial preparations. What is the precise physicochemical mechanism by which the lyophilic sol provides "protection" against subsequent electrolyte-induced coagulation?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: C. Lyophilic sols possess a high affinity for the solvent. When added, they physically adsorb onto the surface of the lyophobic particles, forming a dense, protective solvation layer (sheath). This layer acts as a physical/steric barrier, rigidly preventing the lyophobic particles from approaching each other closely enough to be aggregated by added electrolytes.

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