Question

Perform an activity to illustrate the characteristics of solutions, suspensions and colloids.

Answer 1

Aim of the Experiments: To illustrate the characteristics of solutions, suspensions and colloids.

Apparatus required: Copper sulphate$\left({\mathrm{CuSO}}_4\right)$, chalk powder, milk, beakers, water, glass rod, a torch, filter paper, test tube, funnel.

Procedure:

1. Let us have four groups named A, B, C, and D.
2. Distribute a few crystals of copper sulphate to group A.
3. Give one spatula full of copper sulphate to group B.
4. Give a few drops of milk or ink to group C.
5. Give chalk powder to group D.
6. Each group should add the given sample to a beaker containing water and stir properly using a glass rod.
7. Direct a beam of light from a torch through the beaker containing the mixture.
8. Leave the mixtures undisturbed for a few minutes.
9. Filter the mixture.
10. Record all the observations.

Observations:

1. The particles in the case of groups A and B will not be visible whereas in groups C and D they would be visible.
2. In the case of groups A and B, the particles will not show the path of the beam of light whereas in groups C and D the particles will show the path of a beam of light.
3. The mixture is stable in the case of groups A, B and C, as it does not settle down when kept for some time.
4. On filtering the mixture, the residue is left on the filter paper in the case of group D.

Conclusion:

Groups A and B have got a solution. Group C has a colloidal solution. Group D has got a suspension.