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cohesion

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Cohesion is the force that holds molecules of a liquid together. It is the force that makes water droplets stick together and that makes a water strider able to walk on water.

Cohesion is caused by the attraction between the molecules of a liquid. The molecules of a liquid are always moving, and they are constantly colliding with each other. When two molecules collide, they attract each other. This attraction is what holds the molecules together.

The strength of cohesion depends on the type of liquid. Water has a very strong cohesive force, which is why water droplets can stick together. Other liquids, such as oil, have a weaker cohesive force. This is why oil droplets do not stick together.

Cohesion is an important property of liquids. It is what allows liquids to form droplets and to flow. It also allows some insects, such as water striders, to walk on water.

Here are some of the key things to know about cohesion:

  • It is the force that holds molecules of a liquid together.
  • It is caused by the attraction between the molecules of a liquid.
  • The strength of cohesion depends on the type of liquid.
  • It is an important property of liquids.

How can the word be used?

The cohesive force of the water molecules allowed the drop to form.

cohesion

Different forms of the word

Noun: cohesion (plural: cohesions).

Adjective: cohesive.

Adverb: cohesively.

Verb: to cohere.

Etymology

The word "cohesion" comes from the Latin word "cohaerere", which means "to stick together". It was first used in English in the 16th century to refer to the force that holds together the particles of a solid.

Question

What does the word cohesion mean?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

What is cohesion and why is it important for water?

Answer:

Cohesion is the force of attraction between molecules of the same substance. In water, the molecules are attracted to each other by the strong force of hydrogen bonding. This force of attraction is what holds water molecules together in a liquid state.

Cohesion is important for water because it allows water to form droplets and rise up through plants. It also helps to prevent water from evaporating too quickly.

Here are some of the specific examples of how cohesion is important for water:

Water droplets: Cohesion is what allows water droplets to form. When water molecules are attracted to each other, they form small groups called clusters. These clusters then stick together to form larger droplets.

Water rising up through plants: Cohesion is also what allows water to rise up through plants. The water molecules are attracted to each other and to the walls of the plant's cells. This attraction pulls the water molecules up, against the force of gravity.

Preventing water from evaporating: Cohesion also helps to prevent water from evaporating too quickly. The water molecules are attracted to each other and to the surface of the water. This attraction makes it more difficult for the water molecules to escape into the air.

Without cohesion, water would not be able to exist as a liquid. It would either be a gas or a solid. Cohesion is an important property of water that allows it to do many things that are essential for life.