Colloid

In general, a colloid or colloidal dispersion is a two-phase system of matter; a type of mixture intermediate between homogeneous mixtures and heterogeneous mixtures.

Colloids as a model system for atoms

In physics, colloids are an interesting model system for atoms. For instance, crystallization and phase transitions can be observed.

Related Topics:
Physics - Atom

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• It is possible to manufacture the shape of interaction between colloid particles. Thereby atomic potentials can be imitated.
• Colloids are much bigger than atoms, and can therefore be observed with an optical microscope.
• Due to their size, the velocity of diffusion of colloids is slower. Processes like crystallization that happen within picoseconds in atomic systems, are slow enough to be observed in detail.
• Colloids are too big to be significantly affected by quantum effects. Therefore their dynamics are much easier to understand than that of atoms.