Question

You are given a liquid mixture to identify as a colloid, suspension or solution. When you shine light from a laser pointer the beam passes through without scattering any light.
The mixture is most likely a)suspension
B) not enough info
C) colloid)
D) solution

Answer 1

Answer: The correct answer is Option D.

Explanation:

Mixtures are defined as the combination of two or more pure substances in which every pure substance retains its individual chemical properties. They are classified into three types:

1. Solution: The mixtures are defined as solutions when the particle size is between 0.1 nm to 1 nm. In solutions, there is no physical boundary between dispersed phase and dispersed medium. When light is passed through these mixtures, they pass through.
2. Colloid: The mixtures are defined as colloids when the particle size is between 2 to 1000 nm.  In colloids, physical boundary between dispersed phase and dispersed medium is seen. When light is passed through these mixtures, they scatter the light.
3. Suspension: The mixtures are defined as suspension when the particle size is greater than 1000 nm. In suspension, physical boundary is seen between the dispersed phase and dispersed medium. When light is passed through these mixtures, the particles scatter the light.

From the above information, the correct answer is Option D.

Answer 2

It is most likely a solution. 

Solutions are always clear and transparent, suspensions are cloudy and at least two substances are visible, and colloids are cloudy but homogeneous.