Question

Potassium stearate is obtained by the saponification of an oil or a fat. It has formula ${CH}_3-{\left({CH}_2\right)}_{16}-CO{O}^{-}{K}^{+}$. The molecule has a lyophobic end $({CH}_3-)$ and a lyophilic end $CO{O}^{-}{K}^{+}$. Potassium stearate is an example for:

• A. lyophobic colloid
• B. lyophilic colloid
• C. multimolecular colloid
• D. macromolecular colloid
• E. associated colloid or micelle

Answer 1

The correct option is E associated colloid or micelle

Colloids which behave as normal electrolytes at low concentration, but exhibit colloidal properties at higher concentration due to the formation of aggregated particles called micelles are referred to as associated colloids. Sodium or potassium stearate is an example of associated colloid or micelle.