Ostwald ripening

https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.O04348
dissolution of small crystals or sol particles and the redeposition of the dissolved species on the surfaces of larger crystals or sol particles.
Notes:
  1. The process occurs because smaller particles have a higher surface energy, hence higher total Gibbs energy, than larger particles, giving rise to an apparent higher @S05740@.
  2. Modified from previous definition. The definition proposed here is recommended for its inclusion of @S05727@ particles.
Source:
PAC, 2007, 79, 1801. 'Definitions of terms relating to the structure and processing of sols, gels, networks, and inorganic-organic hybrid materials (IUPAC Recommendations 2007)' on page 1824 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac200779101801)