Which one of the following statements is FALSE for hydrophilic sols?

Let us examine each statement about hydrophilic sols.

Statement (1): "These sols are reversible in nature." This is true. Hydrophilic sols can be reconstituted after evaporation by simply adding the dispersion medium back, making them reversible.

Statement (2): "Their viscosity is of the order of that of $$H_2O$$." This is FALSE. Hydrophilic sols have much higher viscosity than water because the dispersed particles are heavily hydrated (solvated), with thick layers of water molecules bound to them. This extensive solvation significantly increases the viscosity compared to pure water.

Statement (3): "The sols cannot be easily coagulated." This is true. Hydrophilic sols are stabilised by the solvation layer around the particles, making them resistant to coagulation. Large amounts of electrolyte are needed to coagulate them.

Statement (4): "They do not require electrolytes for stability." This is true. Hydrophilic sols are self-stabilised by solvation and do not need added electrolytes for stability, unlike hydrophobic sols.

Therefore, the FALSE statement is option (2).