1. Understand the Concept of Zeta Potential
The zeta potential is the potential difference between the dispersion medium and the stationary layer of fluid attached to the dispersed phase. In other words, it is the electrical potential difference between the electrical double layer of a colloidal system. The electrical double layer consists of a fixed layer (ions strongly bound to the particle surface) and a diffuse layer (ions distributed in the surrounding medium).
2. Analyze the given options
- (A) Potential required to bring about coagulation of a colloidal sol: While zeta potential is related to the stability of a colloid and its tendency to coagulate, this definition is not the most accurate description of zeta potential itself.
- (B) Potential required to give the particle a speed of 1 cm S-1: This definition has no relationship to the zeta potential.
- (C) Potential difference between fixed charged layer and the diffused layer having opposite charges: This is the correct definition of zeta potential. It describes the potential difference within the electrical double layer.
- (D) Potential energy of the colloidal particles: Zeta potential is a potential difference, not the potential energy of the particles themselves.
3. Conclusion
The best definition of zeta potential among the options provided is (C).
Final Answer:
(C) Potential difference between fixed charged layer and the diffused layer having opposite charges
Zeta potential is the potential difference between the fixed charged layer and the diffused layer surrounding a colloidal particle. It plays a key role in the stability of colloidal suspensions, as it influences the extent of repulsion between particles, preventing coagulation or flocculation.
The correct answer is (C) : Potential difference between fixed charged layer and the diffused layer having opposite charges.
‘X’ is a protecting colloid. The following data is obtained for preventing the coagulation of 10 mL of gold sol to which 1 mL of 10% NaCl is added. What is the gold number of ‘X’?