Question

Why can we not use filter paper to filtrate the colloidal solution?

Answer 1

Step1 Colloidal solution:

• The Colloidal solution contains colloidal particles.
• Colloids are a state that exists between that of a solution and that of a suspension.
• Colloid particles range in size from 1 nm to 100 nm.
• The dispersed phase (or colloidal particle) and the dispersion medium (where the colloidal particles are uniformly spread) make up a colloidal solution.
• For example, in a starch solution, the colloidal particle is starch, and the dispersion medium is water.

Step 2 Explanation: Colloidal particles have a diameter of fewer than 100 nanometers, whereas the holes in regular filter paper have a diameter of more than 100 nanometers. As a result, filtration cannot separate a colloidal solution.