Suppose you are given a sample of a homogeneous liquid, consisting of a non-volatile solute and a suitable solvent. What would you do to determine whether it is a solution, colloid, suspension or a pure substance? Cite reasons for your answer..

A suspension will settle. A colloid will exhibit the Tyndall Effect. Use distillation to separate the solvent from the solute.

To determine whether the given sample is a solution, colloid, suspension, or a pure substance, you can follow the steps below:

1. Observe the appearance: Examine the sample's visual characteristics such as transparency and homogeneity.

- If the sample is transparent and appears uniform (without any visible particles), it is likely a solution.
- If the sample is cloudy or opaque with visible particles, it is more likely to be a colloid, suspension, or impure substance.

2. Check for particle settling: Allow the sample to stand undisturbed for some time (10-15 minutes) and observe it again.

- If the sample remains uniform and there is no settling of particles, it is likely a solution.
- If you observe a gradual settling of particles over time, it may indicate a suspension.

3. Test for Tyndall effect: Shine a strong light beam, like a laser pointer, through the sample and observe the path of the light.

- If the light beam is not visible or does not exhibit scattering, the sample is likely a solution.
- If the light beam becomes visible, scattering in different directions, it suggests the presence of larger particles (colloids) or suspended particles (suspensions).

4. Test for filtration: Pass the sample through a filter paper or membrane with fine pores.

- If the liquid passes through the filter, leaving no residue or visible particles, it indicates a solution.
- If particles are retained on the filter paper, it suggests the presence of larger particles (colloids) or suspended particles (suspensions).

5. Assess long-term stability: Finally, observe the sample over a longer period, such as several days or weeks.

- If the sample remains stable and shows no separation or phase changes, it is likely a solution or a pure substance.
- If the components of the sample separate into distinct layers or show visible changes over time, it may indicate the presence of an unstable suspension or impure substance.

By following these steps, you can make an informed determination about whether the sample is a solution, colloid, suspension, or a pure substance based on visual characteristics, behavior under specific tests, and long-term stability.