Surface Tension
What is Surface Tension?
Surface tension is the elastic tendency of liquid surfaces to acquire the minimum surface area. It arises because molecules at the surface experience a net inward force (cohesion) from molecules below, while having no neighbouring molecules above. Surface tension is measured in N/m or J/m². Water has an exceptionally high surface tension due to hydrogen bonding. Surface tension enables insects to walk on water and liquid to rise in capillary tubes.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Surface tension is the elastic tendency of liquid surfaces to acquire the minimum surface area. It arises because molecules at the surface experience a net inward force (cohesion) from molecules below, while having no neighbouring molecules above. Surface tension is measured in N/m or J/m². Water has an exceptionally high surface tension due to hydrogen bonding. Surface tension enables insects to walk on water and liquid to rise in capillary tubes.