Identify each of the following as characteristic of a solution, colloid, or suspension: a. particles of this mixture remain inside a semipermeable membrane but pass through filters

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions: A solution is a homogeneous mixture where the solute is completely dissolved in the solvent. A colloid is a mixture where the particle size is intermediate between a solution and a suspension, and the particles do not settle out. A suspension is a heterogeneous mixture where the particles are large enough to settle out over time.
2. Consider the behavior of particles in each type of mixture: In a solution, the particles are ions or molecules that are too small to be seen and pass through both filters and semipermeable membranes. In a colloid, the particles are larger than in a solution but still small enough to pass through filters, yet they do not pass through semipermeable membranes. In a suspension, the particles are large enough to be trapped by filters and do not pass through semipermeable membranes.
3. Analyze the given characteristic: The statement describes particles that remain inside a semipermeable membrane but pass through filters.
4. Relate the characteristic to the definitions: Since the particles pass through filters but not through semipermeable membranes, this behavior is characteristic of a colloid.
5. Conclude: Therefore, the mixture described is a colloid.

Key Concepts

Solution

A solution is a homogeneous mixture where one substance (the solute) is completely dissolved in another (the solvent). The particles in a solution are at the molecular or ionic level, making them small enough to pass through semipermeable membranes and filters. This characteristic allows solutions to exhibit uniform properties throughout.

Colloid

A colloid is a mixture where tiny particles are dispersed throughout a continuous medium but do not settle out over time. The particle size in a colloid is larger than that in a solution but smaller than in a suspension, typically ranging from 1 nanometer to 1 micrometer. Colloids can pass through filters but are retained by semipermeable membranes, distinguishing them from solutions.

Suspension

A suspension is a heterogeneous mixture in which larger particles are dispersed in a liquid or gas but are not dissolved. These particles are typically larger than 1 micrometer and will settle out over time if left undisturbed. Suspensions cannot pass through filters and are also retained by semipermeable membranes, making them distinct from both solutions and colloids.