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surface tension
noun
: 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
In the 1800s, Belgian physicist Joseph Plateau outlined four basic laws of surface tension that determine the structure of soapy films.
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Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 16 May 2023
That means droplets will be fairly uniform in size and spacing, even if there are differences in initial conditions, such as the viscosity of the water, surface tension, or in the size of the faucet opening.
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Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 16 May 2023
The difference in their alcohol concentrations creates a surface tension gradient, driving the flow.
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Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 14 Mar. 2023
Guards with larger holes are a great choice for areas with heavy rainfall, though, as options with smaller holes can cause what's called surface tension, where rain just rolls right off and not through to the gutter.
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Kat De Naoum, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Aug. 2023
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These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'surface tension.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1876, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near surface tension
Cite this Entry
“Surface tension.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surface%20tension. Accessed 18 Aug. 2024.
Kids Definition
surface tension
noun
: the attractive force felt by surface molecules of a liquid from the molecules beneath that tends to draw the surface molecules into the mass of the liquid and makes the liquid take the shape having the least surface area
Medical Definition
surface tension
noun
: 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
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about surface tension
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