Surface tension is a physical property of liquids that causes the surface of the liquid to behave like a thin, elastic membrane. It is the result of the cohesive forces between the molecules of the liquid, which causes the surface to resist being stretched or broken.
Surface tension is typically measured in units of force per unit length, such as newtons per meter (N/m) or dynes per centimeter (dyn/cm). It can be measured using various techniques, such as the drop weight method or the capillary rise method.
Capillary rise is the phenomenon where a liquid rises up through a narrow tube or channel, such as a thin glass tube or the space between two closely spaced plates. This is due to the combined effects of surface tension and adhesive forces between the liquid and the walls of the tube.
Surface tension plays a crucial role in capillary rise, as it is the force that pulls the liquid up through the narrow tube. The higher the surface tension of the liquid, the greater the capillary rise will be. Additionally, the shape of the liquid's meniscus at the surface also affects the height of capillary rise.
Surface tension and capillary rise can be affected by various factors, including the type of liquid, temperature, and the presence of impurities or surfactants. Additionally, the size and shape of the tube or channel can also affect the height of capillary rise.