Emulsifying agent

Definition

An emulsifying agent is a substance that stabilizes an emulsion by increasing its kinetic stability. It allows the mixing of two immiscible liquids, such as oil and water.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Emulsifying agents possess both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) properties.
2. Common emulsifying agents include lecithin, egg yolk, and soap.
3. They work by reducing the surface tension between the two immiscible liquids.
4. In food chemistry, emulsifiers are crucial for products like mayonnaise and salad dressings.
5. Emulsions stabilized by emulsifying agents can be found in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and cleaning products.

Review Questions

Related terms

Emulsion:

A mixture of two immiscible liquids where one liquid contains a dispersion of the other.

Hydrophilic: Having an affinity for water; typically dissolves or mixes well with water.

Hydrophobic: Tending to repel or fail to mix with water.