Effect of temperature on capillary rise

The surface tension and density of a liquid both play a role in determining capillary rise, but the dominating effect will depend on the specific liquid and temperature conditions. For example, water has a density that increases from 0C to 4C, which would lead to a decrease in capillary height. However, the interfacial energy of water also decreases with increasing temperature, which would lead to an increase in capillary height. Ultimately, it will depend on the balance between these two factors and the specific properties of the liquid being studied.
  • #1
Binayak95
5
0
We all think that by increasing the temp of a liquid, the surface tension would reduce and so capillary rise will not be as high. But on increasing the temp, the liquid's density also decreases and so the weight of liquid to be lifted also reduces. Which will have the dominating effect, decrease in the weight of liquid leading to an increase in capillary height or a decrease in the surface tension causing a fall in the capillary height?
 
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  • #2
It will depend on the liquid and the temperatures involved. E.g. water gets denser from 0C to 4C.
 
  • #3
Presumably you are referring to equilibrium, as opposed to say, thermocapillary flow (Marangoni effect). AFAIK, the interfacial energy is a monotonically decreasing function of temperature (since it goes to zero at the liquid-gas phase transition), but the temperature dependence of the contact angle is less clear- at least, I couldn't easily find any useful data.

Since we are discussing equilibrium, the usual formula applies and the variation of height will go as δ(σ/ρ), where σ is the interfacial energy and ρ the density (assuming the contact angle remains constant).
 

1. How does temperature affect capillary rise?

Temperature has a direct effect on capillary rise. As the temperature increases, the surface tension of the liquid decreases, allowing it to rise higher in the capillary tube. This is because the molecules of the liquid have more energy and are able to overcome the attractive forces between them and the tube walls more easily.

2. What is the relationship between temperature and capillary rise?

The relationship between temperature and capillary rise is directly proportional. This means that as the temperature increases, the capillary rise also increases. Conversely, as the temperature decreases, the capillary rise decreases.

3. How does the diameter of the capillary tube affect the effect of temperature on capillary rise?

The diameter of the capillary tube does not have a significant effect on the relationship between temperature and capillary rise. However, a larger diameter tube may result in a slightly higher capillary rise due to a larger surface area for the liquid to interact with.

4. What are some practical applications of understanding the effect of temperature on capillary rise?

Understanding the effect of temperature on capillary rise has various practical applications. For example, it is important in fields such as agriculture and soil science, as it can affect the movement of water and nutrients through soil. In medical and pharmaceutical industries, it is crucial in understanding the absorption and distribution of medications in the body.

5. Can the effect of temperature on capillary rise be reversed?

Yes, the effect of temperature on capillary rise can be reversed. As the temperature decreases, the surface tension of the liquid increases, resulting in a decrease in capillary rise. This can be seen in the formation of dew on surfaces, where the cooler temperature causes water droplets to form and collect on the surface.

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