Suspensio

Suspensio is a term used in several languages to denote a suspension, either a system that holds components in a dispersed state without dissolution or a substance in which undissolved particles are suspended in a medium. The concept emphasizes dispersion rather than chemical mixing.

In chemistry, a suspension is a heterogeneous mixture in which solid particles are dispersed in a liquid or gas but too large to remain dissolved. The particles may settle over time, and stability is influenced by particle size, viscosity, pH, and stabilizers. Examples include muddy water and chalk in water. Separation methods such as filtration or centrifugation are used to recover solids.

In mechanical engineering, suspension refers to the system of springs, dampers, and linkages that supports a vehicle and absorbs road irregularities. Proper design improves ride comfort, handling, and load transfer. Common types include independent and dependent suspensions, with configurations such as coil springs, leaf springs, and MacPherson struts.

In pharmaceuticals, a suspension is a liquid dosage form in which insoluble drug particles are dispersed in a liquid medium with stabilizers to prevent aggregation. The suspension must be shaken before use to ensure uniform dosing; factors such as particle size, viscosity, and surfactants affect stability and sedimentation rate.

In environmental science and aerosol physics, suspensions describe particles dispersed in air or water. These suspensions can influence visibility, pollutant transport, filtration requirements, and the behavior of sediments in aquatic systems.