Make Entry -- Become an Editor -- Most Popular: (10, 25, 50, 75, 100)

   Help

Zeta Potential

The zeta potential is the electric potential at the theoretical "sliding surface" border between a solution and solid object. In a colloid, particles are electronically charged due to their ionic characteristics. Each of these particles is surrounded by oppositely-charged ions referred to as the "fixed layer." Outside this layer, there is a diffuse double layer of ions of opposite polarity; the entire area together is electronically neutral.

However, when a voltage is applied, the zeta potential is tapped. The particles start to move as they are attracted to electrodes of the opposite polarity. The fixed layer and diffuse double layer "slide" around one another to get to the electrodes.

As the electronic zeta potential approaches zero, particles start aggregating instead of remaining suspended. This means that any colloidal solution, in order to remain a colloid, must remain neutral to electronic measurement but filled with zeta potential. This property can be vitally important in the study of the cytoplasm, where we know that electrochemical imbalances can cause severe damage.

Zeta potential is measured at the shear plane, where the two opposing-polarity fields are separated.

Web Resources On Zeta Potential

What is zeta potential?
About zeta potential

Book Resources On Zeta Potential

Zeta Potential in Colloid Science by Robert J. Hunter
Study of zeta potential for material particles in chemical additive solutions by Pamela J. Watson

Site Maps: Most Recent | Clusters | Browse
New: Graduate Student Job Opportunity