Surface Tension and Viscosity: Practice Problem & Solution
A rectangular film of liquid is extended from $(4 \text{ cm} \times 2 \text{ cm})$ to $(5 \text{ cm} \times 4 \text{ cm})$. If the work done is $3 \times 10^{-4} \text{ J}$, the value of the surface tension of the liquid is: (2016 - II)
Solution Explained:
To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Surface Tension and Viscosity. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:
Work done in stretching a liquid film is $W = T \times 2\Delta A$ (since it has two surfaces). The change in area is $\Delta A = (5 \times 4) - (4 \times 2) = 12 \text{ cm}^2 = 12 \times 10^{-4} \text{ m}^2$. Thus, $$T = \frac{3 \times 10^{-4}}{2 \times 12 \times 10^{-4}} = 0.125 \text{ Nm}^{-1}$$.
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