Understanding Viscosity – A Student’s Guide to Fluid Flow
What is Viscosity?
Viscosity is a measure of how much a fluid resists flow. Think of honey versus water. Honey
flows slowly because its molecules stick together more strongly—it has high viscosity.
Water flows easily and has low viscosity.
Scientifically, viscosity represents the internal friction between layers of fluid. This friction
determines how smoothly or slowly the fluid moves.
Types of Viscosity
1. Dynamic Viscosity (μ):
Also called absolute viscosity, it measures the fluid’s resistance to an applied force.
Example: Stirring honey.
2. Kinematic Viscosity (ν):
It is the dynamic viscosity divided by the fluid’s density (ν = μ/ρ).
Useful when gravity drives the flow, like in falling liquids or pipe systems.
Units:
- Dynamic Viscosity: Pascal-second (Pa·s) or centipoise (cP)
- Kinematic Viscosity: Square meters per second (m²/s) or centistokes (cSt)
Viscosity and Fluid Flow
Viscosity determines the nature of fluid flow:
- Laminar Flow:
Smooth, layered flow. Viscosity controls this regime.
Example: Syrup moving through a pipe.
- Turbulent Flow:
Chaotic and mixed flow. Viscosity still matters, especially for energy loss.
The transition between laminar and turbulent flow is described using the Reynolds number
(Re):
Re = (ρ × V × D) / μ
- Low Re = Laminar (high viscosity)
- High Re = Turbulent (low viscosity)
Temperature Effects on Viscosity
- Liquids:
As temperature increases, viscosity decreases.
Example: Warm honey flows faster than cold honey.
- Gases:
As temperature increases, viscosity increases.
Example: Hot air has more molecular collisions, increasing resistance.
Applications of Viscosity
- Automotive:
Engine oils balance viscosity across temperatures.
Example: Multi-grade oils like 10W-30.
- Food Industry:
Controls texture and flow of ketchup, sauces, and syrups.
- Medicine:
Blood viscosity affects heart function. High viscosity may lead to hypertension.
- Manufacturing:
Viscosity affects paint flow, coatings, and adhesives.
How is Viscosity Measured?
- Capillary Viscometer:
Measures flow time through a narrow tube.
- Rotational Viscometer:
Measures resistance against a spinning spindle.
- Falling Ball Viscometer:
Measures the time a ball takes to fall through fluid.
Fascinating Viscosity Phenomena
- Pitch Drop Experiment:
Pitch appears solid but flows extremely slowly—one drop every ~10 years!
- Non-Newtonian Fluids:
These fluids change viscosity under force.
Example: Ketchup gets runnier when shaken, cornstarch slurry hardens when hit.
- Viscous Fingering:
When a thin fluid pushes into a thick one, it creates finger-like patterns.
Summary & Key Takeaways
- Viscosity controls how fluids move and feel.
- Two main types: Dynamic and Kinematic.
- Viscosity changes with temperature.
- It's vital in engineering, biology, cooking, and more!
Quick Quiz
1. What is viscosity a measure of?
2. Name the two types of viscosity.
3. What unit is dynamic viscosity measured in?
4. How does temperature affect liquid viscosity?
5. Which industry needs viscosity control for paint application?
Answer Key
1. A fluid’s resistance to flow.
2. Dynamic and Kinematic viscosity.
3. Pascal-second (Pa·s).
4. It decreases with increasing temperature.
5. Manufacturing industry.
