Capillary Rise and Pressure in Sealed Capillary Tubes

In summary, the difference in capillary rise will depend on whether the capillary tube is sealed at one end or not. If it is open, there will be no difference as surface tension does not vary. However, if there is gas trapped above the fluid, the pressure in the gas will reduce the height of the capillary column. In terms of pressure, the external pressure and capillary effect must be balanced with the pressure from the fluid column in order to equalize. If the capillary tube is open and exposed to atmosphere, the atmospheric pressure balances itself above and below the column. If one end is closed or the container is closed, this must be taken into account in the pressure balance.
  • #1
zorro
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Will there be any difference in capillary rise if the capillary tube is sealed at one end?
What is the value of pressure at a point in the capillary tube on the same horizontal level as that of liquid outside? - Is it equal to the atmospheric pressure + the height of liquid column above it?
 
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  • #2
Practically, no difference will be observed because the surface tension doesn't vary.
 
  • #3
There will be a difference if there is gas trapped above the fluid. The pressure in the gas will reduce the hight of capillary column.

It isn't entirely correct, but you can usually think of capillary effect and osmotic pressure as actual contributions to pressure, then you just solve until pressures equalize. So you have pressure from the fluid column pulling it down plus the external pressure doing the same. You have pressure in the fluid (E.g. atmospheric pressure, if there is an opening somewhere) and capillary effect pushing fluid up. Find a point where they all balance, and you are done.

If the capillary tube is open and the container with fluid is exposed to atmosphere, then you have the atmospheric pressure balance itself above and bellow your column. Then all you have to do is compare pressure from column's height to effective "negative" pressure generated by the capillary effect. If you close one end, or you close the container with fluid, you have to take that into account.
 

What is capillary rise?

Capillary rise is the phenomenon where a liquid, such as water, rises through a narrow tube or channel, against the force of gravity. This is caused by the surface tension and adhesion between the liquid and the walls of the tube.

What factors affect capillary rise?

The factors that affect capillary rise include the properties of the liquid, such as surface tension and viscosity, as well as the diameter and material of the tube or channel. The angle at which the tube is held in relation to the surface of the liquid also plays a role.

Why is capillary rise important in science?

Capillary rise is important in science because it is a fundamental principle that explains many natural phenomena, such as the movement of water in plants, the rise of groundwater, and the behavior of ink in pens. It also has practical applications in fields such as chemistry, biology, and engineering.

How is capillary rise measured?

Capillary rise can be measured by using a capillary tube or a capillary action apparatus. The height of the liquid rise is typically measured in millimeters or centimeters. Other methods, such as mathematical equations, can also be used to calculate the capillary rise.

What are the limitations of capillary rise?

The limitations of capillary rise include the fact that it only occurs in narrow tubes or channels, and the height of the rise is limited by the surface tension and adhesion of the liquid. Additionally, other forces, such as gravity and evaporation, can also affect the height of the rise. The properties of the liquid and the material of the tube can also impact the accuracy of the measurements.

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