An inorganic chemist passes a strong, continuous direct electric current through a colloidal sol via entirely inert electrodes. After an extended period, the sol completely precipitates out. What prec

Question

An inorganic chemist passes a strong, continuous direct electric current through a colloidal sol via entirely inert electrodes. After an extended period, the sol completely precipitates out. What precise surface phenomenon is responsible for this destruction?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. This process is electrophoresis. The highly stable colloidal particles carry a uniform charge. Under a strong electric field, they migrate strictly to the oppositely charged electrode, lose their stabilizing charge (discharge), and immediately coagulate due to unhindered van der Waals attractions.

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