Question

What is the difference between multimolecular and macromolecular colloids? Give one example of each. How are associated colloids different from these two types of colloids?

What are multimolecular and macromolecular colloids? Give one example of each type. How are associated colloids different from them?

Answer 1

1. In multi-molecular colloids, the colloidal particles are an aggregate of atoms or small molecules with a diameter of less than 1 nm. The molecules in the aggregate are held together by van der Waal’s forces of attraction. Examples of such colloids include gold sol and sulphur sol.
2. In macro-molecular colloids, the colloidal particles are large molecules having colloidal dimensions. These particles have a high molecular mass. When these particles are dissolved in a liquid, sol is obtained. For example: starch, nylon, cellulose, etc.
3. Certain substances tend to behave like normal electrolytes at lower concentrations. However, at higher concentrations, these substances behave as colloidal solutions due to the formation of aggregated particles. Such colloids are called aggregated colloids.

Answer 2

Multimolecular colloids	Macromolecular colloids	Associated colloids
They are formed by the aggregation of a large number of atoms or molecules which generally have diameters less than 1 nm.	They are molecules of large size.	They are formed by the aggregation of a large number of ions in concentration solution.
Their molecular masses are not very high.	They have high moleuclar masses.	Their molecular masses are generally high.
Their atoms or molecules are held together by weak van der Waal’s force.	Due tolong chain the van der Wall’s force holding them are comparatively stronger.	Higher is the concentration. greater are the van der Waal’s forces.
Example: Sols of gold and sulphur.	Example: Polymers like runner, nylon, strach.	Example: soap sol