Suspension: Definition and Example
What is the definition of a suspension?
a) A homogeneous mixture of solute particles in a solvent
b) A mixture where particles of one substance are dissolved in another
c) A heterogeneous mixture where particles of one substance are distributed throughout a second phase and can settle over time
d) A mixture where solute particles are evenly distributed in a solvent
Answer:
Activated charcoal is an example of a suspension, which is a heterogeneous mixture where particles of one substance are distributed throughout a second phase and can settle over time.
A suspension is a type of heterogeneous mixture in which solid particles are dispersed throughout a liquid or gas medium. These particles are large enough to eventually settle at the bottom of the container due to gravity. Unlike solutions, where solute particles dissolve in the solvent, the particles in a suspension do not dissolve but remain suspended in the medium.
Common examples of suspensions include muddy water, chalk-water mixture, and activated charcoal in water. These mixtures may appear cloudy or opaque due to the presence of suspended particles. Suspensions are commonly used in various applications such as medicine, food industry, and environmental engineering.
In summary, a suspension is characterized by the presence of dispersed particles that can settle over time, making it a heterogeneous mixture with visible particles.