0 votes
37 views
in Surface Chemistry by (138k points)
What is the effect of pH on the zeta potential of colloidal particles and how can it be measured using electrophoresis technique?

1 Answer

0 votes
by (138k points)
The zeta potential of colloidal particles is a measure of the electrostatic repulsion or attraction between particles in a colloidal system. It is influenced by the pH of the surrounding medium, as changes in pH can affect the surface charge of the particles.The effect of pH on the zeta potential of colloidal particles can be explained as follows:1. At low pH values  acidic conditions , the surface of the colloidal particles may become protonated, leading to a positive surface charge. This results in a positive zeta potential.2. At high pH values  alkaline conditions , the surface of the colloidal particles may become deprotonated, leading to a negative surface charge. This results in a negative zeta potential.3. At the isoelectric point  IEP , the zeta potential is zero, and the colloidal particles have no net charge. This occurs at a specific pH value, where the positive and negative charges on the particle surface are balanced.The zeta potential can be measured using electrophoresis techniques, such as capillary electrophoresis or laser Doppler electrophoresis. In these techniques, colloidal particles are suspended in a liquid medium, and an electric field is applied across the suspension. The particles will move towards the electrode with the opposite charge, and their velocity is proportional to their zeta potential.To determine the effect of pH on the zeta potential, the electrophoresis experiment can be performed at different pH values. By measuring the zeta potential at each pH value, a pH-zeta potential curve can be obtained. This curve can provide valuable information about the stability of the colloidal system, as well as the optimal pH range for maintaining a stable dispersion.In summary, the pH of the surrounding medium has a significant effect on the zeta potential of colloidal particles, which can be measured using electrophoresis techniques. Understanding the relationship between pH and zeta potential is crucial for controlling the stability and properties of colloidal systems in various applications, such as drug delivery, coatings, and food products.
Welcome to Sarvan Science Q&A, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of the community.
...