Question
Physics Question on Surface tension
A molecule of water on the surface experiences a net
A
downward resultant unbalanced adhesive force
B
upward resultant unbalanced cohesive force
C
downward resultant unbalanced cohesive force
D
upward resultant unbalanced adhesive force
Answer
downward resultant unbalanced cohesive force
Explanation
Solution
A molecule on the surface experiences a net force (Cohesive force) in downward direction due to net number of molecules pulling it in the downward direction (molecule A as shown in figure underneath). In contrast, a molecule well inside is equally pulled in all directions by molecules around at (molecule Bas shown in figure).