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🧪 Chemistry  ·  Surface Chemistry  ·  NEET & JEE

Why is a multimolecular colloid like a gold sol different from a macromolecular colloid like a protein solution?

Answer: A multimolecular colloid is formed by aggregation of many small atoms or molecules, while a macromolecular colloid consists of single large polymer molecules.

  • A A multimolecular colloid is itself largely made up of a single enormous giant covalent molecule with little aggregation needed in most cases under typical conditions
  • B A multimolecular colloid is formed by aggregation of many small atoms or molecules, while a macromolecular colloid consists of single large polymer molecules
  • C Macromolecular colloids such as dissolved proteins are said to be inherently unstable whenever placed in aqueous solution according to standard textbooks
  • D Multimolecular colloids are said to invariably carry a permanently fixed negative surface charge in every case in general practice as frequently described

Correct answer: B. A multimolecular colloid is formed by aggregation of many small atoms or molecules, while a macromolecular colloid consists of single large polymer molecules

Explanation: Multimolecular colloids form from aggregates of smaller particles (like gold atoms clustering), while macromolecular colloids are individual large molecules such as proteins or starch.

Adsorption Isotherm: x/m vs PressureP (pressure)x/mlow P: x/m ∝ Phigh P: saturation plateauAt high pressure, all surface sites are occupied - the curve flattens (monolayer saturation)

A typical adsorption isotherm: x/m (mass adsorbed per gram of adsorbent) rises steeply at low pressure, then flattens into a saturation plateau as the adsorbent surface fills up.

Concept context

Explore the chemistry that happens at interfaces, from catalysts that speed up industrial reactions to colloids like milk, smoke, and gels that surround us every day.

Read the full Surface Chemistry notes →