Distinction between lyophilic and lyophobic sols
| Property | Lyophilic sols (suspensoid) | Lyophobic sols (Emulsoid) |
| Surface tension | Lower than that of the medium | Same as that of the medium |
| Viscosity | Much higher than that of the medium | Same as that of the medium |
| Reversibility | Reversible | Irreversible |
| Stability | More stable | Less stable |
| Visibility | Particles can’t be detected even under ultramicroscope | Particles can be detected under ultramicroscope. |
| Migration | Particles may migrate in either direction or do not migrate in an electric field because do not carry any charge. | Particles migrate either towards cathode or anode in an electric field because they carry charge. |
| Action of electrolyte | Addition of smaller quantity of electrolyte has little effect | Coagulation takes place |
| Hydration | Extensive hydration takes place | No hydration |
| Examples | Gum, gelatin, starch, proteins, rubber etc. | Metals like Ag and Au, hydroxides like  ,  metal sulphides like  etc. |