In chemistry, dispersion describes the physical process by which particles of a solute are separated and distributed throughout a solvent or continuous phase, forming a mixture. The nature of the dispersion—whether it is a true solution, a suspension, or a colloid—is determined by the size, stability, and type of intermolecular forces acting between the dispersed and dispersing phases. Solutions involve homogeneous mixing at the molecular or ionic level, while colloids involve larger particles that remain suspended indefinitely without settling. The principles governing dispersion relate directly to solubility, osmotic pressure, and the energetics of intermolecular interactions.