Question about cornstarch/ non Newtonain fluid

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In summary, the conversation is discussing the measurement of a substance's ability to take compression and the use of force constant (k) in Hooke's law to determine this. The speaker also asks about the correlation between a trampoline and a bed in terms of compression ability and where to find the force constant (k) for everyday items, specifically for cooking corn starch. The responder suggests measuring k through experiments and mentions Young's modulus as a possible alternative.
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superaznnerd
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How do you measure the ability of a substance to take compression? Do you use the force constant (k) of Hooke's law? F = -kx?

For example, what propoerty correlates with a trampoline's ability to take compression better than a bed?

Also, where can I find the force constant (k) of everyday items? More specificlly, I am looking for the force constant (k) of cooking corn starch, a non Newtonain fluid? Does anyone know it?
 
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  • #2
k is a spring constant , k is measured by doing an experiment , putting a weight on and seeing how much it stretches but maybe you can see how mush cornstarch gives , by psi/distance and do some testing
 
  • #3
Are you thinking of Young's modulus?
 

1. What is cornstarch and how does it make a non-Newtonian fluid?

Cornstarch is a fine powder made from grinding the starchy part of corn kernels. It is made up of long chains of carbohydrates, which can tangle and form a network when mixed with water. This network gives the fluid its non-Newtonian properties, meaning its resistance to flow changes depending on the applied force.

2. How does a non-Newtonian fluid behave differently from a Newtonian fluid?

Unlike a Newtonian fluid, which has a constant viscosity (resistance to flow) regardless of the force applied, a non-Newtonian fluid's viscosity can change. When a force is applied, the fluid's particles align and the viscosity increases, making it thicker and more resistant to flow. This is why it can behave like a solid when pressure is applied, but flows like a liquid when left alone.

3. What are some examples of non-Newtonian fluids?

Some common examples of non-Newtonian fluids include ketchup, mayonnaise, toothpaste, and paint. These substances can behave like solids or liquids depending on how they are handled. Other examples include quicksand, blood, and lava.

4. How is cornstarch used in non-Newtonian fluid experiments?

Cornstarch is often used in non-Newtonian fluid experiments as a thickening agent, mixed with water to create a suspension. When a force is applied to the mixture, such as squeezing or hitting it, the cornstarch particles align and the mixture becomes solid. When left alone, the particles relax and the mixture becomes liquid again.

5. What are the practical applications of non-Newtonian fluids?

Non-Newtonian fluids have a wide range of practical applications, including in food, cosmetics, and industrial processes. For example, they are used in cooking to thicken sauces, in shampoos to create a smooth texture, and in body armor to absorb impact. They are also used in drilling fluids to control pressure and in manufacturing to create more precise and efficient processes.

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