The continuous versus the quantum state of macro reality of living and nonliving things can be called the two phases of colloids: the continuous phase and the dispersed phase. What are dispersed can be solids, liquids, or gases. What are continuous must be liquids or gases although if both the dispersed and the continuous are solids then this dual co-existence can be defined as the crystalline state of colloids.

The science of chemistry classifies colloids in various ways: sols, emulsions, gels, aerosols, and foams. Sols are dispersions of tiny solids in liquids and subdivided into lyophobic and lyphillic sols. The latter are more like true solutions in which the solute molecules are large and have an affinity for the solvent. Emulsions are colloidal systems in which the dispersed and the continuous phases are both liquids, for examples: oil in water or water in oil and both require an emulsifying agent to stabilize the dispersed component (e.g. well shaken salad dressing). Gels are colloids in which both dispersed and continuous phases have a 3D network so that it forms a jelly-like mass. Gelatin is a good example. If one component is removed then the product is a rigid mass called silica gel. Aerosols are dispersions of liquids or solids in a gas, as in a mist or smoke. Foams are dispersions of gases in liquids or solids. Wherever and whenever the gases escape the remaining solid mass looks like leavened bread or Swiss cheese. If both the dispersed and the continuous components are gases then this colloidal system is called the atmosphere. However, if certain component gases begin to coagulate then the results establish the meteorological components of clouds, rains, snows, sleets, and hails.