 Abstract colloids can exhibit behavior similar to those found in molecules, making them useful models for understanding molecular interactions. In this study, researchers investigated the attractive forces between two particles, one permanently charged and the other induced by a diffuse layer of polarized water molecules. They found that the measured force was consistent with predictions based on a molecular-debi interaction. This suggests that the dipolar nature of the particles is responsible for abrogation into chains. Further computer simulations revealed that the dipolar attraction and the van der Waals attraction both play important roles in chain formation. These results suggest that the DI attraction may be a universal phenomenon in soft matter, such as colloids, polymers, clays, and biological materials, which could lead to further research into these materials. This article was authored by Haiang M.I. Lee, Yong Wu Kim, in Minneco and others.