dispersoid

A dispersoid is a solid particle or liquid droplet dispersed within another substance, which is typically a liquid or gas. These dispersed particles are often referred to as the dispersed phase, while the substance in which they are dispersed is known as the dispersion medium. Dispersoids are a fundamental concept in colloid science, describing systems where particles are suspended but do not dissolve.

The size of dispersoids typically ranges from about 1 nanometer to 1 micrometer. Particles smaller than this are usually considered true solutions, while larger particles may settle out of the medium over time. The behavior and properties of a dispersoid system depend heavily on the size, concentration, and surface properties of the dispersed particles, as well as the nature of the dispersion medium.

Examples of dispersoids are abundant in everyday life and various scientific fields. In the atmosphere, smoke and dust particles are dispersoids in air. Milk is a classic example of a liquid dispersoid, where fat globules are dispersed in water. Paints and inks are also dispersoid systems, containing solid pigment particles dispersed in a liquid vehicle. Pharmaceutical suspensions and emulsions are designed to deliver drugs in a dispersoid form. Understanding dispersoids is crucial in fields such as materials science, food science, and environmental engineering.