QuestionAugust 12, 2025

CER - Question Why does water form droplets on a penny instead of spreading out flat?

CER - Question Why does water form droplets on a penny instead of spreading out flat?
CER - Question
Why does water form droplets
on a penny instead of spreading
out flat?

Solution
4.0(163 votes)

Answer

Water forms droplets on a penny because cohesive forces within water are stronger than adhesive forces with the penny, leading to minimized surface area. Explanation 1. Identify the forces involved Water molecules experience cohesive forces (attraction between like molecules) and adhesive forces (attraction between unlike molecules). 2. Analyze cohesive forces Cohesive forces in water are strong due to hydrogen bonding, causing water molecules to stick together. 3. Examine adhesive forces Adhesive forces between water and the penny's surface are weaker than the cohesive forces within water. 4. Determine shape formation The stronger cohesive forces cause water to minimize its surface area, forming droplets rather than spreading out flat.

Explanation

1. Identify the forces involved<br /> Water molecules experience cohesive forces (attraction between like molecules) and adhesive forces (attraction between unlike molecules).<br /><br />2. Analyze cohesive forces<br /> Cohesive forces in water are strong due to hydrogen bonding, causing water molecules to stick together.<br /><br />3. Examine adhesive forces<br /> Adhesive forces between water and the penny's surface are weaker than the cohesive forces within water.<br /><br />4. Determine shape formation<br /> The stronger cohesive forces cause water to minimize its surface area, forming droplets rather than spreading out flat.
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