When breaking occurs, what must be added to an emulsion?

When breaking occurs, what must be added to an emulsion?

• A. additional emulsifier
• B. water
• C. stabilizer
• D. oil

Answer: (A)

Emulsion stability relies on a film of emulsifier at the oil–water interface that shields droplets from coalescing. When the emulsion breaks, that interfacial film is disrupted, droplets merge, and the phases separate. Adding more emulsifier supplies molecules to re-form or reinforce that protective layer, lowers interfacial tension, and helps droplets re-disperse, restoring stability. Other options don’t address the broken interface: extra water can worsen separation, adding more oil tends to promote separation, and while a stabilizer can help in some systems, the immediate repair for breakage is to reintroduce emulsifier to rebuild the interfacial film.

Emulsion stability relies on a film of emulsifier at the oil–water interface that shields droplets from coalescing. When the emulsion breaks, that interfacial film is disrupted, droplets merge, and the phases separate. Adding more emulsifier supplies molecules to re-form or reinforce that protective layer, lowers interfacial tension, and helps droplets re-disperse, restoring stability. Other options don’t address the broken interface: extra water can worsen separation, adding more oil tends to promote separation, and while a stabilizer can help in some systems, the immediate repair for breakage is to reintroduce emulsifier to rebuild the interfacial film.