1. Water rising in a narrow tube: When a small diameter tube is inserted into a container filled with water, the water rises in the tube due to capillary action. The water molecules adhere to the tube's walls and begin to climb upwards, defying gravity.
2. Absorption of ink by a blotting paper: When a paper towel or blotting paper is brought in contact with an ink spill, capillary action causes the ink to spread and get absorbed into the paper. The narrow spaces between the paper fibers facilitate the upward movement of ink.
3. Rise of sap in plants: Capillary action plays a significant role in the upward movement of sap in plants. Within the tiny vessels of the plant's xylem tissue, water molecules adhere to the walls and are pulled upward due to the cohesion and adhesion forces, helping transport water from the roots to the leaves.
4. Wicking action in cloth or sponges: When a cloth or sponge is dipped into a liquid, capillary action causes the liquid to move upward through the tiny gaps between the fibers. This wicking action enables the cloth to absorb and distribute liquid efficiently.
5. Rising of water through soil in plants: Capillary action is responsible for the upward movement of water through the soil in plants. As water seeps into the soil, it is drawn upwards through the narrow spaces between soil particles due to adhesion and cohesion forces. This helps provide moisture to plant roots.
Examples of capillary actions
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