Understanding the Wilhelmy Plate Method for Calculating Surface Tension

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SUMMARY

The Wilhelmy Plate Method for calculating surface tension involves two distinct formulae regarding the division of the surface tension force. One formula divides the force by the perimeter of the plate, while the other divides it by twice the perimeter. The discrepancy arises from whether one or both sides of the plate are utilized in the measurement, particularly when one side is roughened to enhance liquid adhesion. Understanding these variations is crucial for accurate surface tension calculations.

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  • Familiarity with the Wilhelmy Plate Method
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  • Knowledge of liquid wetting properties
  • Basic principles of fluid mechanics
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Researchers, chemists, and engineers involved in surface science, particularly those focused on fluid dynamics and surface tension measurements.

lyhuyen
I found two different resources which give two different but similar formulae to calculate surface tension for Wilhelmy plate method: in one formula, the surface tension (ST) force is devided by the perimetor of the plate; in the other one, ST force is divided by twice the perimetor.

Which one is correct?

And can someone please explain me why it is the perimetor? Since the liquid doesn't wet the whole rectangular plate, shouldn't it be twice the length of the plate? (given that the thinness is negligible).

Thanx in advance.
 
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It would help if you gave some links but I think I see your problem. In one of the links I read, they roughen up one side of the plate and in another, they use both sides. That could account for your unexplained factor of two??
 

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