I'm just curious,.. is static the ONLY reason dust will 'settle' on a dry vertical surface? Or are there other factors in the 'equation'? Would be very interested into solving this trivial, yet intriguing question of mine - thanks!
2007-05-23 09:25:12 · 3 answers · asked by wildimagination2003 4 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Van der Waals forces may have something to do with it.
2007-05-24 10:07:22 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is heavier than air and so falls and settles on horizontal surfaces - and is attracted to vertical surfaces by static on the surface and often blown on to it and sticks to the crap already on there. If the surface is really shiny dust may be attacted to it - but bacteria find it hard to stick to shiny surfaces. hence if you get cystitis and drink cranberry juice to make the inside of your bladder shiny it can help cure it.
2007-05-23 09:38:14 · answer #2 · answered by Mike10613 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes - at the molecular level electrostatic forces are responsible for all adhesive/cohesive effects - 'stickiness' in general. Glue works because of electrostatic forces.
2007-05-23 20:08:37 · answer #3 · answered by Pete WG 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋