Coagulation
The aggregation of colloidal particles into clusters large enough to settle out of the dispersion.
Unit
Dimensionless
In depth
Coagulation occurs when the surface charges stabilising the colloid are neutralised, most efficiently by ions of high charge as described by the Hardy–Schulze rule. Heating, prolonged stirring or adding an oppositely charged colloid will also destabilise the system.
Examples in the real world
Alum clarifying muddy water; deltas forming where river silt meets seawater; milk curdling when acid is added.