Question

Explain the following term, giving an example.

Coagulation

Explain the following term:

Coagulation

Answer 1

Coagulation is the process where a colloidal solution becomes precipitated or aggregated by neutralizing the charges on its particles, typically through the addition of an electrolyte. This neutralization reduces the repulsive forces between particles, causing them to clump and settle out. For example, adding Al³⁺ ions to a negatively charged arsenic sulfide (As₂S₃) sol causes coagulation by neutralizing particle charges, leading to precipitation.