What is the difference between a sol and a gel?

Here’s a explanation:

• Sol:
  • State: Liquid
  • Particles: Solid dispersed in liquid
  • Flows easily
  • Example: Milk of magnesia, paint
• Gel:
  • State: Semi-solid or jelly-like
  • Particles: Liquid trapped in a solid network
  • Does not flow easily
  • Example: Jelly, cheese, agar

Quick tip:

• Sol → liquid, flows
• Gel → semi-solid, does not flow