Physical aspects - Foam formation

7 important questions on Physical aspects - Foam formation

What are 3 differences between emulsions and foams?

  1. Air bubbles are much larger than emulsion droplets (mm vs um)
  2. Density difference between dispersed and continuous phase is much larger in foam than in emulsion
  3. Solubility of gas in water is usually much higher than oil in water


This all leads to faster creaming/disproportionation (Ostwald ripening in emulsions)

What is needed for the production of foam?

  1. Low surface tension --> creation of a lot of surface area, surface active agents needed
  2. Fast diffusion to interfaces (surface coverage)

What does the energy input in a foam determine?

  • Foam height
  • Foam volume
  • Bubble size
  • Higher grades + faster learning
  • Never study anything twice
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Discover Study Smart

What is the difference between the foam formation with a globular or flexible protein?

A globular protein (e.g. Whey), has a high foamability at pI, and lower foamability further from pI.
A flexible protein (e.g. Gelatin) has a low foamability at pI, and higher foamability further from pI.

What does the large density difference between air and liquid in foam cause?

The bubbles cream and water drains down (drainage), this causes a large increase in volume fraction of air bubbles

Which 2 different types of air flow can occur in foams and what is the result?

  • Disproportionation --> within the foam
  • Coalescence --> outside


The air bubbles will grow and the entrapped air volume in the foam will decrease.

What is the difference between foam formers and foam stabilizers?

  • Foam formers
    • Small molecules: fast diffusion
    • Large hydrophobic groups: hydrophobicity, composition of proteins
  • Foam stabilizers
    • Large molecules (proteins): thick interface, more stable
    • Protein coverage (effect of pH, salt)

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

  • A unique study and practice tool
  • Never study anything twice again
  • Get the grades you hope for
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
Trustpilot Logo