Question

Which of the following is not an example of an emulsifying agent?
A.Proteins
B.Gums
C.Soaps
D.Electrolytes

Answer 1

Hint: Emulsifying agent is used to mix two immiscible liquids. Emulsifying agents generally act on colloidal solutions containing fat/protein in the mixture and form a thin filmy layer for emulsification.

Complete step by step answer:
An emulsion is a mixture of two liquids (ex-oil and water) that would not normally mix, that is a mixture of two immiscible liquids. Mixture thus formed is unstable and an emulsifier or emulsifying agent is used to mix these two liquids to form stable mixture. These agents have both a hydrophilic and a hydrophilic part in their chemical structure. The hydrophilic end of the emulsifier molecule is attracted to the water and the hydrophobic end is attracted to the fat/oil. By vigorously mixing the emulsifier with the water and fat/oil, a stable emulsion can be made. Thus, an emulsifier keeps immiscible compounds from separating by increasing the kinetic stability of the mixture
Example-Egg yolks are used as an emulsifier in mayonnaise to keep the oil from separating out. The emulsifying agent in egg yolks is lecithin.
The Principle emulsifying agents are Natural and Synthetic Soaps/Detergents, Proteins,Gums,heavy metal salts of fatty acid, long chain alcohols, etc.,
Thus, Option D, Electrolyte is not an Emulsifying agent,rather it is a solution which helps in the electrolysis process.


Note:
Emulsion is of two type-
1) Oil in water
2)Water in oil
When kept for longer periods of time or in case of absence of an emulsifying agent, the particles in the emulsion try to get separated known as cracking of emulsion