Colloids

Colloids are mixtures where tiny particles, usually between 1 nanometer and 1 micrometer in size, are dispersed evenly throughout a fluid, like milk or paint. These particles are small enough that they don’t settle at the bottom but are large enough to scatter light, making colloidal systems appear cloudy. In soft matter physics, studying colloids helps us understand how these materials behave under different conditions, influencing properties like stability, flow, and texture. By manipulating the interactions between the particles, we can tailor the properties of colloidal materials for various applications, from food to pharmaceuticals.