Study Guides/Physics/Dimensional Formula of Surface Tension
Study Guide · Physics

Dimensional Formula of Surface Tension

Surface Tension is a property of liquids that allows their surface to behave like a stretched elastic membrane (this is why small insects can walk on water).

Question (Click to Flip)

What is the dimension of surface tension?

Answer

The dimensional formula of surface tension is [M L⁰ T⁻²] or simply [M T⁻²].

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Key Facts

Formula: Force / Length.

Dimensional Formula: [M¹ L⁰ T⁻²].

SI Unit: N/m.

Cause: Cohesive forces between liquid molecules.

Derivation

Step 1: The formula for Surface Tension (S or T) is: Surface Tension = Force / Length

Step 2: Write the dimensions of Force and Length:

  • Dimension of Force = Mass × Acceleration = [M L T⁻²]
  • Dimension of Length = [L]

Step 3: Substitute them into the formula: Surface Tension = [M L T⁻²] / [L] Notice that [L] in the numerator and denominator cancel out.

Final Dimensional Formula: [M¹ L⁰ T⁻²]

SI Unit

  • SI Unit: Newton per metre (N/m).
  • Another common unit is Joules per square metre (J/m²), since it is also defined as Surface Energy per unit area.

Questions and Answers

What is the dimension of surface tension?+

The dimensional formula of surface tension is [M L⁰ T⁻²] or simply [M T⁻²].

Why is the dimension of length zero in surface tension?+

Because surface tension is Force [M L T⁻²] divided by Length [L]. The 'L' cancels out, leaving [L⁰].

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