1 surface tension | Definition of surface tension

surface tension

noun

Definition of surface tension

: the attractive force exerted upon the surface molecules of a liquid by the molecules beneath that tends to draw the surface molecules into the bulk of the liquid and makes the liquid assume the shape having the least surface area

Examples of surface tension in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Factors like gravity, faucet design and a drafty kitchen may have started the dripping, but all that matters in the end is the straightforward struggle between the squeeze of surface tension and the resistance of the neck’s inertia. — Quanta Magazine, "Bubble Experiment Finds Universal Laws," 31 July 2019 But adding a little dish soap provides additional surface tension, allowing the bubbles to get trapped and creating lots of foam. — Ben Finio, Scientific American, "Make Elephant Toothpaste," 1 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'surface tension.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of surface tension

1876, in the meaning defined above

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More Definitions for surface tension

surface tension

noun

English Language Learners Definition of surface tension

technical : the force that causes the molecules on the surface of a liquid to be pushed together and form a layer

surface tension

noun

Medical Definition of surface tension

: the attractive force exerted upon the surface molecules of a liquid by the molecules beneath that tends to draw the surface molecules into the bulk of the liquid and makes the liquid assume the shape having the least surface area

More from Merriam-Webster on surface tension

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with surface tension

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about surface tension

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