Homework again.......anyone want to help!?
2007-12-08 13:25:22 · 5 answers · asked by Seraphim S 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
#For large container, liquid will have a flat surface area due to inherent properties of liquids.[Liquids have a definite shape and volume ] , but near the wall of the container you will find a effect of capillary action.
#Depending on the liquid and the surface properties of the container, the liquid in the container may be more strongly attracted to the surface of the container than it is to itself. The attraction to the inner walls of the container will tend to pull the liquid near the wall of the container upward above the general surface of the liquid. If the diameter of the container is small enough, none of the liquid surface will be flat; the entire surface will be warped by this attraction.
If the end of a small-diameter tube of such a material is stuck into a large container of the liquid, the liquid will actually rise slightly higher than the surface of the surrounding liquid. The smaller the tube, the higher the liquid will rise. This phenomenon is called capillary attraction. Water in a glass tube is a common example of two substances that will result in capillary attraction.
2007-12-08 15:16:49 · answer #1 · answered by alpha b 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It follows basic law of thermodynamics - all systems tend to go to lowest energy level. Being flat at the surface gives the lowest CG (center of gravity) and therefore assumes lowest potential energy! To create any other form at the surface, you would have to introduce additional energy to the system, e.g. you can lift a ferromagnetic liquid at the center with a magnet positioned just above the surface.
2007-12-08 23:01:48 · answer #2 · answered by Yogy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Liquids are self-leveling, and will always have flat surfaces, at rest. It is a result of gravity. Liquids will conform to the surface they are on top of, and if confined, will always have a level surface, in relation to the Earth's gravity.
2007-12-08 21:50:52 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The surface of the liquid is flat because gravity is pulling everything down to its lowest possible level.
2007-12-08 21:53:38 · answer #4 · answered by Tim C 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Actually if the truth was known it has nothing to do with the liquid itself but with the logistics of the handling,,,one can get more liquid on a pallet if the container is rectangular or square...There ya go...from the E..Have a Merry Christmas
2007-12-08 21:34:35 · answer #5 · answered by Edesigner 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋