Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Surface tension is the property of a liquid that causes its surface to behave like a stretched elastic sheet, allowing it to resist external forces and minimize its surface area.
Related terms
Capillary action: Capillary action refers to the ability of a liquid to flow against gravity in narrow spaces or tubes due to adhesive and cohesive forces.
Meniscus: The meniscus is the curved upper surface of a liquid in a container caused by capillary action and adhesive forces between the liquid and container walls.
Cohesion: Cohesion is the attraction between molecules of the same substance, causing them to stick together.