Read the given passage and answer the question that follow:
Colloidal particles always carry an electric charge which may be either positive or negative. For example, when `AgNO_3` solution is added to KI solution, a negatively charged colloidal sol is obtained. The presence of equal and similar charges on colloidal particles provide stability to the colloidal sol and if, somehow, charge is removed. coagulation of sol occurs. Lyophobic sols are readily coagulated as compared to lyophilic sols.
Why the presence of equal and similar charges on colloidal particles provide stability?

Explanation

To answer the question of why the presence of equal and similar charges on colloidal particles provides stability, we can break down the explanation into several steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Colloidal Particles**: Colloidal particles are small particles that remain dispersed in a medium and carry an electric charge, which can be either positive or negative.

2. **Example of Colloidal Sol**: When silver nitrate (AgNO₃) is added to potassium iodide (KI) solution, a negatively charged colloidal sol of silver iodide (AgI) is formed. This demonstrates that colloidal particles can have a specific charge based on the substances involved.

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