Question

Explain Ostwald ripening. How does it affect the final distribution of nanoparticles?

Answer 1

Ostwald ripening is a common phenomena observed in solids and liquids (not related to gaseous, since molecules are far apart) in which small crystals/particles dissolve and re-deposit into larger crystal/particles. This is also known as big fish eat small fish model.

This will affect the final distribution of nano-particles since the small particles will be clubbed to form bigger particles and the number of nano particles will be reduced in the system.

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