Explanation for Capillary Force

[firewatermax]

Homework Statement

Could some one help me understand capillary Force?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

If we use a capillary tube sticking in a water cup as an example. The phenomenon will be water level is higher in the capillary tube than that in the water cup.
I understand that it is the surface tension force b/t tube and water which balances with the self-weight of the part of the water in the tube above the surrounding water level. But I just don't know why water would go up in the first place?

So just to make the question clear, I understand why water is able to stay in a higher level in the tube, but I don't know why it goes there.

Thanks for the help!

 

[Simon Bridge]

The water goes up because the surface tension and adhesion are not in balance with the weight when it is just level with the rest of the water.What level do you need this at?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capillary_action
http://science.howstuffworks.com/dictionary/physics-terms/capillary-action-info.htm
https://water.usgs.gov/edu/capillaryaction.html