Adhesion, Cohesion & Surface Tension

Front

What is surface tension?

Back

Surface tension is the property of a liquid that allows it to resist an external force, due to the cohesive nature of its molecules. It is what allows small objects, like a paperclip, to float on water.

Front

What causes water to bead up on surfaces?

Back

Water beads up on surfaces due to high surface tension, which is a result of the cohesive forces between water molecules.

Front

What is adhesion?

Back

Adhesion is the property of water that allows it to stick to other substances, such as glass or plant leaves.

Front

What two elements make up water?

Back

Water is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom (H2O).

Front

What is cohesion?

Back

Cohesion is the property of water that allows it to stick to itself, which is why water droplets form.

Front

What is capillary action?

Back

Capillary action is the ability of water to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces, often seen when water moves up a straw.

Front

How does temperature affect surface tension?

Back

As temperature increases, surface tension decreases because the molecules move faster and are less able to stick together.

Front

What is a common example of adhesion in nature?

Back

A common example of adhesion is water climbing up the sides of a glass or a plant stem.

Front

What is the difference between adhesion and cohesion?

Back

Adhesion is the attraction between water and other substances, while cohesion is the attraction between water molecules themselves.

Front

What role does surface tension play in insects' ability to walk on water?

Back

Surface tension allows insects, like water striders, to walk on water without sinking.