Highly stable lyophilic sols, such as heavily hydrated gelatin, are frequently added to extremely se — Surface Chemistry Chemistry Question
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?
Answer: C
💡 Solution & Explanation
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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