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?

Answer 1

Colloidal solutions can be categorized into three groups. These include:
1) Multimolecular colloids - these are colloidal solutions formed by the aggregation of many small molecules or atoms with diameter of about 1nm. The small molecules or atoms aggregate and become large in size, the size of colloidal substances. Examples of such colloids include solution of gold and solution of sulphur.

2) Macromolecular colloids- these are colloid solutions made up of substances that have large molecules. From the word itself, macro means large, this means that the molecules are large enough to be in the range colloids. Examples include starch, cellulose, proteins and gelatin.

3) Associated colloids - these group of colloids are made up of solutions with ions in high concentration that form aggregates in the range of colloidal solution. The associated colloids, only have this characteristics in high concentrations. Examples include surface active agents such soap and other detergents.

Answer 2

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..

(ii) In macro-molecular colloidsthe 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.

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