Equation To Calculate Surface Tension

Surface Tension Equation:

\[ \gamma = \frac{\rho \cdot g \cdot r \cdot h}{2} \]

Surface Tension (γ):

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1. What is Surface Tension?

Surface tension is the elastic tendency of liquid surfaces at rest to contract to the minimum surface area possible. It is caused by the cohesive forces between liquid molecules at the surface.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the surface tension equation:

\[ \gamma = \frac{\rho \cdot g \cdot r \cdot h}{2} \]

Where:

\( \gamma \) — Surface tension (N/m)
\( \rho \) — Density of the liquid (kg/m³)
\( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.8 m/s²)
\( r \) — Radius of the capillary tube (m)
\( h \) — Height of liquid rise (m)

Explanation: This equation calculates surface tension based on capillary rise method, where a liquid rises in a narrow tube due to surface tension forces.

3. Importance of Surface Tension Calculation

Details: Surface tension measurement is crucial in various fields including physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. It helps understand fluid behavior, design microfluidic devices, and study biological processes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter density in kg/m³, radius in meters, and height in meters. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What factors affect surface tension?
A: Surface tension is affected by temperature, presence of surfactants, and the nature of the liquid. It generally decreases with increasing temperature.

Q2: What are typical surface tension values?
A: Water at 20°C has a surface tension of about 0.0728 N/m. Mercury has a much higher surface tension of about 0.465 N/m.

Q3: How is surface tension measured experimentally?
A: Common methods include capillary rise method, du Noüy ring method, Wilhelmy plate method, and drop weight method.

Q4: Why does surface tension occur?
A: Surface tension occurs because molecules at the surface experience unbalanced cohesive forces, pulling them inward and creating surface tension.

Q5: What are some practical applications of surface tension?
A: Applications include soap and detergent action, inkjet printing, medical diagnostics, and the functioning of lungs through pulmonary surfactant.