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Surface Chemistry

Surface Chemistry: Adsorption, Colloids & Emulsions

Dr. Aarzoo Saini
August 2026
5 min read

Master adsorption isotherms, colloidal purification, Brownian movement, and coagulation values for CBSE & entrance exams.

Surface Chemistry examines phenomena occurring at interfaces between phases. Chapters covering Adsorption, Catalysis, Colloids, and Emulsions yield direct factual marks in board and entrance tests.

Adsorption: Accumulation of molecular species at surface rather than bulk. Physisorption involves weak van der Waals forces (reversible, non-specific, low enthalpy). Chemisorption involves chemical bond formation (irreversible, highly specific, high enthalpy). Freundlich Adsorption Isotherm: x/m = k * P^(1/n).

Colloidal Solutions: Heterogeneous systems with particle size 1 to 1000 nm. Classified into Lyophilic (solvent-attracting, reversible, stable) and Lyophobic (solvent-repelling, irreversible, requires stabilizer).

Optical & Electrical Properties: Tyndall Effect (scattering of light by colloidal particles) and Brownian Movement (zigzag motion providing stability). Hardy-Schulze Rule: Coagulating power of an electrolyte is directly proportional to valence of flocculating ion (e.g., Al3+ > Ba2+ > Na+ for negative sols). Dr. Aarzoo Saini summarizes surface phenomena at We-Gyaan Classes.

Key Takeaways for Students

  • Differentiate Physical Adsorption from Chemical Adsorption across key parameters.
  • Distinguish Lyophilic from Lyophobic colloidal systems.
  • Apply Hardy-Schulze Rule to determine coagulating efficiency of ions.
  • Understand Gold Number as a measure of protective action of lyophilic colloids.
Dr. Aarzoo Saini

Authored by Dr. Aarzoo Saini

Founder & Lead Educator at We-Gyaan Classes Roorkee, with over 20 years of teaching excellence in Science and Chemistry for Board Exams, NEET, JEE, and CUET.

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