Consider the following statements - If there were no phenomenon of capillarity 1. It would be difficult to use a kerosene lamp 2. One would not be able to use a straw to consume a soft drink 3. The blotting paper would fail to function 4. The big trees that we see around would not have grown on the earth

QUESTION

Medium

Science & Technology

Prelims 2012

Consider the following statements - If there were no phenomenon of capillarity

It would be difficult to use a kerosene lamp
One would not be able to use a straw to consume a soft drink
The blotting paper would fail to function
The big trees that we see around would not have grown on the earth

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Capillarity, or capillary action, is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of, and in opposition to, external forces like gravity.

Capillary action allows the kerosene to rise up the wick, where it can then be ignited.

Drinking with a straw relies on the principle of air pressure rather than capillarity. When you suck the air out of the straw, you create a pressure difference that forces the drink into the straw.

Blotting paper absorbs ink or any liquid due to capillary action, where the liquid is drawn into the small pores of the blotting paper.

Capillary action is critical for transporting water from the roots to the leaves of tall trees against the force of gravity.

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