why is clay so sticky and sand not?

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why is clay so sticky and sand not?

2007-02-01 12:40:14 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology

3 answers

That is the very property of clay-- it makes water stick to it.
Sand just lets water flow through.

2007-02-01 12:48:31 · answer #1 · answered by Lisa the Pooh 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋

Clays are very small platy particles that has very strong surface charge that attracts water molecules. The surface charge is differenent from the ends. The charge difference results in strong attaction between particles. Sand's particles are much larger and are round or cubic shapes. The property is governed by inertia. Therefore, it is not sticky.

2007-02-01 20:48:14 · answer #2 · answered by cnt 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋

Because its CLAY. Thats like the definition. If it weren't, it would be SAND.

2007-02-01 20:47:19 · answer #3 · answered by Christine T 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋