Understanding Surface Tension and the Role of Force in U-Shape Wire Frames

In summary, when a U-shape wire frame containing a straight sliding wire is dipped in soap, a film forms between the sliding wire and the boundary of the frame. The force due to surface tension is equal to 2 times the surface tension multiplied by the length of the sliding wire. This is because there are two surfaces in contact – one surface stuck with the slider and the other bounded by the frame. The change in area dA is equal to Tdx, hence T is equal to dW/dA. The film has two surfaces, each with surface tension, resulting in a total force of F = 2Tl.
  • #1
AdityaDev
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If I have a U-shape wire frame and it contains a straight sliding wire and I dip this in soap, a film forms between the sliding wire and the boundary of U shape frame. Why is the force due to surface tension F = 2Tl where l is length of sliding wire?

They say there are 2 layers in contact. Which 2? There is only one film.

Also
##dW=Fdx=(2Tl)dx##
They book says 2ldx is the change in area dA. Why?
##dW = Tdx##
## hence, T= dW/dA##
 
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  • #2
How many sides does the film have?
 
  • #3
Bystander said:
How many sides does the film have?
4 sides. 1 stuck withe the slider. 3 bounded by frame.
 
  • #4
Not edges --- sides?
 
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  • #5
The film has two surfaces. There is surface tension on each surface.

Chet
 
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  • #6
Bystander said:
Not edges --- sides?
Understood. 2 surfaces.
Thank you
 
  • #7
AdityaDev said:
Understood. 2 surfaces.
Thank you
exper2_04.jpg
T
One surface and then flipping this vertically
upload_2014-12-11_10-6-36.png

in this way two surfaces.Each surface has surface tension so F = 2Tl.
 
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What is surface tension?

Surface tension is the force that causes the surface of a liquid to behave like a stretched elastic membrane. It is the result of the cohesive forces between the molecules of a liquid, which causes the surface to resist any external force that tries to break or deform it.

How is surface tension measured?

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). This measurement is often obtained by measuring the force required to pull a very thin wire or loop from the surface of the liquid.

What is the role of force in U-shape wire frames?

In a U-shape wire frame, surface tension is responsible for the shape and stability of the frame. The cohesive forces between the liquid molecules create a surface tension that pulls the liquid towards the center of the U-shape, creating a concave meniscus. The force exerted by this surface tension is balanced by the weight of the liquid, resulting in a stable equilibrium.

How does surface tension affect the behavior of U-shape wire frames?

The surface tension of a liquid determines the shape and stability of a U-shape wire frame. A liquid with a higher surface tension will create a more pronounced meniscus and a stronger force pulling the liquid towards the center of the U-shape. This will result in a more stable and rigid wire frame. A liquid with a lower surface tension will create a shallower meniscus and a weaker force, resulting in a less stable and more flexible wire frame.

Can surface tension be changed or controlled?

Yes, surface tension can be changed or controlled by altering the properties of the liquid, such as its temperature, composition, or the presence of surfactants. Adding surfactants, substances that reduce intermolecular forces, can lower the surface tension of a liquid, making it less cohesive and more easily deformable. On the other hand, increasing the temperature of a liquid can decrease its surface tension as the molecules become more energetic and less attracted to each other.

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