oil-in-water emulsion
Quick Summary
An oil-in-water emulsion is a mixture where oil is dispersed in water. This is distinct from a water-in-oil emulsion, where water is dispersed in oil.12
Emulsifiers are key to creating and stabilizing these mixtures. They are chemical additives that help suspend one liquid within another, like oil and water. Emulsifiers have a structure with a hydrophobic part that dissolves in oil and a hydrophilic part that dissolves in water. This allows them to form stable dispersions of oil droplets in water, commonly seen in products like mayonnaise. Emulsifiers are also used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to prevent ingredient separation and extend shelf life.3
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