Question

What is surface tension? Explain the applications of surface tension.

Answer 1

Surface tension is the property of a liquid. The molecules of a liquid experience a force, which contracts the extent of their surface area as much as possible, so as to have the minimum value. Thus, the amount of force acting per unit length, on the surface of a liquid is called surface tension.

Application of surface tension:

1. Water molecules rise up due to surface tension. Xylem tissues are very narrow vessels present in plants. Water molecules are absorbed by the roots and these vessels help the water to rise upward due to “capillarity action” which is caused by the surface tension of water.
2. For a given volume, the surface area of a sphere is the minimum. This is the reason for the liquid drops to acquire a spherical shape.
3. Water strider insect slides on the water surface easily due to the surface tension of water.
4. During a heavy storm, sailors pour soap powder or oil into the sea near their ship to decrease the surface tension of seawater. This process reduces the impact of the violent water current against the all of ship.