Correct spelling, explanation: the difference between mold and mould is primarily a matter of spelling conventions between American English and British English. In American English, mold is the preferred spelling for the noun referring to a fungus or a form for shaping something, while mould is used less frequently. In British English, mould is the standard spelling for both the noun and the verb, while mold is considered an acceptable alternative.

Definition of mold:
1. Noun, a soft green, gray, or black growth that develops on old food or on objects that have been left too long in warm, slightly wet places
After leaving the bread in a damp environment for several days, green mold began to grow on its surface.
The old books stored in the damp basement were unfortunately susceptible to mold, leading to a musty smell and potential damage to the pages.
2. Verb, to shape something into a particular form
The skilled artisan used a potter’s wheel to carefully mold the clay into a beautifully crafted vase.
The chef used a metal mold to shape the chocolate into elegant, bite-sized truffles.

Collocations with mold:
Some most commonly used collocations include:
1. Mold growth: refers to the development and spread of mold, particularly in damp or humid environments. It can be a concern for buildings and can have health implications.
The rapid mold growth in damp environments can lead to various health issues.
2. Mold spores: tiny, reproductive particles released by molds. They can become airborne and potentially cause respiratory issues if inhaled.
Mold spores are tiny particles that can become airborne and cause respiratory problems.
3. Mold remediation: the process of addressing and resolving mold problems. It involves identifying, removing, and preventing the recurrence of mold.
Professional mold remediation services are essential to address severe mold infestations.
4. Mold inspection: a thorough examination to assess the presence and extent of mold in a particular area. It helps in developing an effective strategy for mold remediation.
A thorough mold inspection is necessary to identify the extent of the problem in a building.

Correct spelling, explanation: both mold and mould are correct spellings of the same word, but they are used in different English language variations. Whether you use mold or mould depends on the English language variant you are using. If you’re writing in American English, mold is the correct form. If you’re writing in British English, both mold and mould are acceptable, but mould is more commonly used.