When Water Molecules Stick Together?
Water is an amazing substance; not only has it been essential to the development of life on this planet, it’s also capable of creating some pretty amazing effects on its own. One of the most interesting things about water is the way it can “stick” together. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the science behind this phenomenon and discuss why it happens.
Why Do Water Molecules Stick Together?
The reason why water molecules stick together is due to an effect known as “cohesive forces”. This occurs when water molecules are attracted to each other, forming hydrogen bonds. This attraction is stronger than the forces of repulsion between water molecules, so it causes them to stick together.
Types of Cohesive Forces
There are two types of cohesive forces – surface tension and capillary action.
Surface Tension: Surface tension is the measure of the strength of the bonds between the molecules of a liquid, such as water. This measurement is higher for water than for other liquids, which is why it forms beads on glass.
Capillary Action: Capillary action is the ability of the liquid to move through narrow spaces. Water has a higher capillary action than other liquids, which is why it can “pull” itself up through tiny spaces, even against gravity.
How Does This Help Us?
The cohesive forces of water molecules have a number of practical applications. Here are a few examples:
- Surface tension can be used to help clean surfaces, as it causes dirt and other materials to ball up and be easily wiped away.
- Capillary action is used in water transport systems, such as those that supply water from reservoirs to cities.
- capillary action can also be used to help plants pull water from the soil to their leaves.
Conclusion
Water molecules stick together due to an effect known as cohesive forces, which cause them to form hydrogen bonds with each other. This phenomenon has a number of practical applications, from helping to clean surfaces to aiding in water transport systems.