Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Colloidal particles carry an electric charge. When a colloidal particle is in a medium, it develops a double layer of charges (the Helmholtz double layer) consisting of a fixed layer and a diffused layer.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The potential difference between the fixed layer and the diffused layer of opposite charges is called the Zeta potential or electrokinetic potential. It is a measure of the magnitude of the electrostatic repulsion or attraction between particles and is one of the fundamental parameters known to affect stability.
Step 3: Final Answer
Zeta potential is directly related to the charge on the surface of colloidal particles.