<Moron Physics Post-Lab>?

Question

How do you explain using surface tension why a paper clip floating on water will sink if you put a drop of detergent in the water with it?

Answer 1

Because the detergent destroys the surface tension by making the water not cohere to itself as well.

Answer 2

Surface tension is caused by a thing called 'Van der Waales' forces that occour between bipolar molecules (such as water). Detergents add an easily polarized molecule (such as potash or lye) which neutralizes these forces so the molecules don't 'stick' to each other as well. That's the reason that soapy watter feels more 'slippery' than pure water.

Doug