Verified Solution Science Exploring Mixtures and their Separation

Why does a colloidal solution appear clear when viewed from the side but cloudy when a beam of light passes through it?

4 views 0 helpful Updated Jul 5, 2026
Solution ✔ Verified
Answer

Colloidal particles are too small to be seen individually, so the solution appears clear to the naked eye. However, they are large enough to scatter light (Tyndall effect), making the path of the light beam visible and thus appearing cloudy from the side.

Was this solution helpful?
0
Practice more questions on Exploring Mixtures and their Separation — download a free worksheet. Download
Not the question you're searching for? + Ask your question