Calculating Capillary Height with Surface Tension: A Question on Homework

In summary, the content discusses the balance between the upward force due to surface tension and the downward force due to weight in a capillary tube. The equation for excess pressure is mentioned and the approach to finding the force is discussed. It is determined that the upward force is equal to (2πr)T, where T is the surface tension and r is the inner circumference of the capillary.
  • #1
vijayram
26
1

Homework Statement


[/B]
Water rises in a capillary tube to certain height such that the upward surface due to surface tension is balanced by 7.5 X 10-4N
Force due to weight of the liquid. If the surface tension of water is 6 X 10-2Nm-1,the inner circumference of the capillary must be

Homework Equations



pexcess=2T/rcosθ

The Attempt at a Solution



I thought that the force of the excess pressure which causes the movement of liquid must be equal to the weight of the liquid.I know excess pressure is 2T/r (θ=0 for water),but how to find the force of this pressure?Is my approach right?

Can we just like that multiply 2T/r with πr2because it is not plain liquid but a meniscus?
 
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  • #2
Yes. The upward force is ##(2\pi r) T##. Think of the surface as a membrane with a tensile force per unit length of T.
 

What is surface tension?

Surface tension is a physical phenomenon that describes the tendency of liquid molecules to stick together at the surface, creating a thin film or "skin" on the surface of the liquid.

What causes surface tension?

Surface tension is caused by the cohesive forces between the molecules of a liquid. These forces are stronger at the surface, where the molecules have fewer neighboring molecules to bond with.

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). It can also be measured indirectly by observing the shape of droplets or bubbles formed by the liquid.

What are some real-world applications of surface tension?

Surface tension plays a crucial role in many natural and industrial processes. Some examples include the formation of raindrops, the behavior of soap bubbles, and the functioning of inkjet printers.

How does temperature affect surface tension?

Generally, surface tension decreases as temperature increases. This is because higher temperatures cause the molecules to move faster, which weakens the cohesive forces between them. However, this relationship can vary depending on the specific properties of the liquid.

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