Dissolving salt in a liquid is an example of what type of dispersion?

Dissolving salt in a liquid is an example of a true solution, which is a specific type of dispersion where solute particles (in this case, salt) are completely dissolved within the solvent (the liquid). This results in a homogeneous mixture at a molecular level, meaning that the solute cannot be distinguished from the solvent. In this scenario, the particles of salt dissociate into ions and become evenly distributed throughout the liquid, creating a consistent liquid phase.

In contrast, colloidal dispersions involve larger particles that do not settle out but can scatter light, creating a mixture that is not as homogeneous as a true solution. A suspension consists of larger particles that can eventually settle out of the liquid if left undisturbed. An emulsion is a type of colloidal system specific to mixtures of two immiscible liquids, such as oil and water.

The correct understanding of dissolving processes helps in grasping the concept of solutions and their properties relative to colloids, suspensions, and emulsions.