Capillary action
Capillary Action
Capillary action (pronunciation: /kəˈpɪləri ˈækʃən/) is a process that allows liquid to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of, or even in opposition to, external forces like gravity. This phenomenon is essential in various natural and technological processes, particularly in the field of medicine.
Etymology
The term "capillary action" originates from the Latin word capillaris, meaning "hair-like", due to the typical small diameters of capillaries. The word "action" is used to describe the process or state of doing something.
Definition
Capillary action is the ability of a liquid to flow against gravity where liquid spontaneously rises in a narrow space such as a thin tube, or in porous materials such as paper or in some non-porous materials such as liquefied carbon fiber. This effect can be seen in a plant's roots' absorption of water.
Medical Relevance
In medicine, capillary action is crucial in the circulatory system where it assists in the movement of blood through the tiny vessels in the body. It is also a key factor in the functioning of medical diagnostic equipment, such as blood glucose meters and certain types of laboratory equipment.
Related Terms
- Cohesion (physics): The intermolecular attraction between like-molecules.
- Adhesion: The attraction between different molecules.
- Meniscus: The curve seen at the top of a liquid in response to its container.
- Surface tension: The elastic tendency of a fluid surface which makes it acquire the least surface area possible.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Capillary action
- Wikipedia's article - Capillary action
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