Flow Rate and Viscosity
A liquid’s thickness or thinness is called viscosity. A thicker fluid would be more viscous
The time it takes a fluid to flow from one point to another is called a fluid’s flow rate.
How does the viscosity of liquids vary
• As temperature of a liquid increases, the viscosity decreases meaning it can move quicker
• As temperature of a liquid decreases (gets colder), the viscosity increases meaning it will move slower
How does the viscosity of gases vary?
• As the temperature of a gas increases, the viscosity increases as there are more collisions between the gas particles. The increased collisions mean it is harder for the gas to move.
• As the temperature of a gas decreases (gets colder), the viscosity decreases meaning it will move quicker
The above relationship is the opposite of liquids.
Importance of Viscosity:
Motor Oil
• Motor oil must be viscous enough to cover engine parts and lubricate them
• However, motor oil must also be thin enough to reach engine parts as soon as vehicle is started
Oil extraction from oil sands
• One method is to use steam and inject it underground
• The steam heats the oil sands and makes the oil thinner or less viscous
• The oil can then be pumped out of the ground
Nail Polish
• Viscosity is important
• If too thin it will flow too fast and dry fast and if too thick it will flow slowly and dry too slow