The stabilization of a dispersed phase in a lyopobic colloid is due to

Options

A. The viscosity of the medium
B. The surface tension of the medium
C. Affinity for the medium
D. The formation of an electrical double layer between the two phases

Answer

To solve the question regarding the stabilization of a dispersed phase in a lyophobic colloid, we can break it down into a step-by-step analysis:

### Step 1: Understand the Components of a Lyophobic Colloid
A lyophobic colloid consists of two main components: the dispersed phase (the particles) and the dispersion medium (the liquid or gas in which the particles are suspended). Lyophobic colloids are characterized by their lack of affinity for the dispersion medium.

**Hint:** Identify the two main components of a colloid and their characteristics.

### Step 2: Identify the Nature of the Dispersed Phase
In lyophobic colloids, the dispersed phase particles are typically large and do not easily mix with the dispersion medium. This can lead to instability, as the particles tend to aggregate or settle out of the medium.

**Hint:** Consider the size and behavior of the dispersed phase in a lyophobic colloid.

### Step 3: Explore Stabilization Mechanisms
The stabilization of dispersed phases in colloids can occur through various mechanisms. In the case of lyophobic colloids, the formation of an electrical double layer is crucial. This occurs when charged particles in the dispersed phase attract oppositely charged ions from the medium, creating a layer of charge around each particle.

**Hint:** Think about how charge interactions can influence the stability of particles in a colloid.

### Step 4: Understand the Electrical Double Layer
The electrical double layer consists of two layers: the first layer is made up of the charged particles of the dispersed phase, and the second layer consists of the oppositely charged ions from the dispersion medium. This arrangement leads to electrostatic repulsion between particles, preventing them from coming too close to each other and aggregating.

**Hint:** Visualize how the arrangement of charges can create forces that keep particles apart.

### Step 5: Evaluate Other Options
The other options provided (viscosity of the medium, surface tension of the medium, and affinity for the medium) do not effectively contribute to the stabilization of lyophobic colloids. Viscosity and surface tension do not provide the necessary repulsive forces, and affinity is not applicable as lyophobic colloids do not have a strong attraction to the medium.

**Hint:** Compare the effectiveness of the electrical double layer with the other options to determine which is most relevant.

### Conclusion
The stabilization of a dispersed phase in a lyophobic colloid is primarily due to the formation of an electrical double layer between the two phases. This mechanism provides the necessary electrostatic repulsion that keeps the particles suspended in the medium.

**Final Answer:** The correct option is the formation of an electrical double layer between the two phases.