Question

How associated colloids are different from multimolecular colloids?

Answer 1

Property	Associated colloids	Multimolecular colloids
Definition	Associated colloids are formed by the aggregation of a large number of simple molecules or ions at a certain concentration.	Multimolecular colloids are formed by the aggregation of atoms or smaller molecules without any chemical bonding.
Micelle formation	Associated colloids form micelles when the concentration exceeds a specific value known as the critical micelle concentration (CMC).	Multimolecular colloids do not form micelles; their particles are simply held together by weak van der Waals forces.
Nature of particles	The particles in associated colloids contain both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts, such as in soaps and detergents.	In contrast, multimolecular colloids consist of tiny particles or molecules that are aggregated together, such as in sulphur sol or gold sol.
Example	Soap in water (e.g., sodium stearate), detergents.	Sulphur sol, gold sol.