Definition

Verb: * To disperse a substance into a colloidal state within a medium; to cause a substance to form a colloidal solution or suspension.

Usage

The verb "peptise" describes a specific chemical process. It is used when a solid or coagulated material is broken down and distributed as very fine particles throughout a liquid, forming a stable colloidal mixture. This action is often induced by adding another chemical agent (a peptizing agent).

Examples

• The chemist used a small amount of alkali to peptise the precipitated oxide.
• Certain clays can be peptised in water to create a stable suspension.
• The goal of the procedure is to peptise the aggregate, preventing it from settling.

Advanced Usage

• "Peptise" vs. "Disperse": While "disperse" is a more general term, "peptise" specifically implies achieving a colloidal level of dispersion, where the particles are typically between 1 and 1000 nanometers in size and do not settle out easily.
• The process is the opposite of coagulation or flocculation.

Variants and Related Words

• Peptisation (noun): The process or result of peptising.
  • The peptisation of the gel was complete.
• Peptizing agent (noun): A substance that promotes peptisation.
  • Sodium silicate is a common peptizing agent for silica.

Synonyms

• Deflocculate
• Disperse (into a colloid)
• Solubilize (in a colloidal sense)

Antonyms

• Coagulate
• Flocculate
• Aggregate
• Precipitate

Verb

1. disperse in a medium into a colloidal state