Which property of the dispersed phase, when improved, contributes to stability by ensuring a uniform particle size distribution?

• A. Uniformity of particle size
• B. Color
• C. Taste
• D. Odor

Answer: (A)

Uniformity of particle size in the dispersed phase is what promotes stability by keeping the distribution of sizes narrow. When particle sizes are similar, they settle or cream at nearly the same rate, so the system stays more homogeneous over time. A broad size distribution fuels processes like Ostwald ripening (smaller particles dissolve and redeposit onto larger ones) and differential sedimentation, which quickly leads to phase separation or creaming. Keeping sizes uniform minimizes these driving forces, maintaining a stable dispersion.

Color, taste, and odor don’t directly affect the physical stability of the dispersed phase; they influence sensory attributes rather than how particles interact, aggregate, or separate.