Definition: "Capillary action" is a noun that describes how liquids move up or down in very thin tubes or spaces, like the tiny tubes in plants or the narrow gaps in paper. This movement happens because of two main forces: surface tension (which makes the surface of the liquid hold together) and adhesion (which is the attraction between the liquid and the surface of the tube).
In more advanced discussions, "capillary action" can be related to concepts in various fields: - Botany: Explaining how water moves from the roots to the leaves of plants. - Engineering: Discussing how liquids travel through small pipes or porous materials.
In general, "capillary" can refer to small blood vessels in the body, which can also relate to the movement of fluids.
While "capillary action" does not have direct idioms or phrasal verbs, you might encounter phrases in scientific contexts such as: - "Draw up" (as in drawing up liquid through a straw, which is similar to capillary action). - "Soak up" (as in a sponge soaking up water, which also involves capillary action).
Capillary action is a fascinating phenomenon that shows how liquids can travel through small spaces due to the forces of surface tension and adhesion.