- Sol: A sol is a colloidal system in which the dispersed particles are solid. The particles are typically in the range of 1 to 100 nanometers in diameter. Sols can be formed by a variety of methods, including chemical precipitation, grinding, and dispersing.
- Gel: A gel is a colloidal system in which the dispersed particles are linked together to form a semi-solid network. The particles are typically in the range of 10 to 1000 nanometers in diameter. Gels can be formed by a variety of methods, including chemical cross-linking, cooling, and evaporation.
- Emulsion: An emulsion is a colloidal system in which the dispersed particles are liquid. The particles are typically in the range of 1 to 100 micrometers in diameter. Emulsions can be formed by a variety of methods, including shaking, stirring, and homogenization.