Question

Explain Molecular Theory of surface tension

Answer 1

Due to intermolecular forces, all the water molecules in water are pulled by other water molecules. In a liquid, the forces on a molecule are balanced out by forces exerted by other molecules around the given molecule. But on surface, there are no molecules on top to balance the downward force. Therefore, a force perpendicular to the surface of water creates a thin elastic film. This is known as the surface tension.