A true solution (or simply a solution) differs from a colloid and a suspension as follows.

Differences between a true solution, a colloid and a suspension

True solution

(i) A true solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more than two substances.

(ii) In a true solution, solute cannot be seen even with a microscope.

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(iii) In a true solution, the size of particles is about 10-10 m.

(iv) The constituents of a true solution cannot be separated by filtration.

Colloid

(i) A colloid is a homogeneous-looking, but heterogeneous-mixture.

(ii) In a colloid, the particles can be seen only with a powerful microscope.

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(iii) In a colloid, the size of particle is between 10-7 – 10-9 m.

(iv) The constituents of a colloid cannot be separated by filtration.

Suspension

(i) A suspension is a heterogeneous mixture of a solid dispersed in a liquid, or gas.

(ii) In a suspension, the particles can be seen with the naked eyes.

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(iii) In a suspension, the size or particle is bigger than 10-7 m.

(v) The constituents of a suspension can be separated by ordinary filtration.