Definition of Suspensions
Suspension is a heterogeneous mixture in which particle size of one or more components is greater than 1000nm.When mud is dissolved in water and stirred vigorously; particles of mud are distributed evenly in water. After some time, the particles of this solution settle under water due to influence of gravity. This solution is an example of Suspension (see picture below). Contrary to True Solution, particles of suspension are big enough to be seen with naked eye.
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Difference between True Solution, Suspension and Colloidal Solution
The table given below summarizes the major properties and points of distinction between each type of solution with respect to different properties.
| Property | True Solution | Colloidal Solutions | Suspension |
| Size of the particles | < 1nm | 1– 1000nm< | 1000nm |
| Nature | Homogeneous | Heterogeneous | Heterogeneous |
| Filterability(Diffusion through parchment paper) | Particles of true solution diffuse rapidly through filter paper as well as parchment paper. | Colloidal particles pass through filter paper but not through parchment paper. | Suspension particles do not pass through filter paper and parchment paper. |
| Visibility | Particles of True solution are not visible to naked eye. | Colloidal particles are not seen to naked eye but can be studied through ultra microscope. | Suspension particles are big enough to be seen by naked eye. |
| Tyndall effect | True Solution does not show Tyndall effect. | Colloids shows Tyndall effect. | Suspension may or may not show Tyndall effect. |
| Appearance | Transparent | Translucent | Opaque |
Characteristics of suspension
- A suspension is of heterogeneous nature- There are two phases. The solid particles represent one phase while the liquid in which these are suspended or distributed forms the other phase.
- The particle size in a suspension is more than 100 nm (or 10–7m).
- The particles in a suspension can be seen with naked eyes and also under a microscope.
- The solid particles present in the suspension can be easily separated by ordinary filter papers. No special filter papers are needed for the purpose.
- The particles in a suspension are unstable. They settle down after sometime when the suspension is kept undisturbed. This is known as precipitate.
- It should be noted that suspension-and precipitate are actually the same. The particles of the solid in the suspended form represent suspension. When they settle, a precipitate results.
Frequently Asked Questions
A suspension is a mixture where small particles are dispersed in a liquid but not dissolved.
A mixture with solid particles that do not dissolve in the liquid is called a suspension.
Solid particles that float in a liquid without dissolving are suspended.
In class 12, suspension is defined as a heterogeneous mixture where particles are visible and can settle over time.