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Microfluids

Definition

Microfluids refer to fluids that flow through tiny channels or devices with dimensions on the micrometer scale. They exhibit unique behaviors due to their small size and surface effects.

Analogy

Think of microfluids like ants moving through narrow tunnels underground. Just like how ants can navigate through tight spaces that larger animals cannot access easily, microfluids can flow smoothly through tiny channels that macrofluids struggle with.

Related terms

Capillary action: Capillary action is the ability of liquids to flow against gravity in narrow tubes or porous materials due to adhesive forces between liquid molecules and solid surfaces.

Lab-on-a-chip: Lab-on-a-chip refers to miniaturized devices that integrate multiple laboratory functions onto a single chip for applications such as medical diagnostics or chemical analysis using microfluidics.

Surface tension: Surface tension is the cohesive force between liquid molecules at the surface, causing liquids to form droplets or exhibit capillary action.