Question

What is peptisation? Give an example.

Answer 1

We know that peptization is the method of producing stable colloids by using an electrolyte to break up precipitate and disperse it into the colloids. In this it is seen that peptization utilizes the charges to produce colloids from the precipitate. There is also an electrolyte used in the process which is called a peptizing agent.

Complete answer: - Peptization is basically the process, which is responsible for the formation of stable dispersion of colloidal particles in the dispersion medium.
- Now let’s see the process of peptisation: In order to perform peptization we need an electrolyte, which is called a peptizing agent. The precipitate particles adsorb on the ions of the peptizing agent, and then electrostatic repulsion (it is the repulsion between two compound with like charges) takes place, that causes the precipitate particles combine with the electrolyte ions to mix with the colloidal solution, and thereby forming a stable colloid.
- For example, we can find that when the ferric chloride is added to the precipitate of ferric hydroxide, then the hydroxide precipitate transfers to the solution by absorbing ferric ions. In simple words we can say that, $F{{e}^{3+}}$ ion is absorbed on $Fe{{\left( OH \right)}_{3}}$and splits into colloids.
- There are some examples that are formed from this process like: the clay that you use to do things like make pottery is produced through peptization.

Additional Information: -We can see that there are different important uses of this process. It is mainly used in the process determining the formation and destruction of various dispersed structures. This also sometimes may be harmful, for example in the process of purification of water.

Note: - We can note here that peptisation is the process which is the main cause for the formation of colloidal particles in dispersion medium, and here peptizing agent is required for the completion of the process.
- It plays an important role for understanding various precipitation reactions that occur in aqueous solution.