High School

Why is the height of rise in a capillary tube less than the height of rise in soils?

Answer :

Final answer:

The height of rise in a capillary tube is greater than in soils due to the principles of capillary action, which depends on the radius of the tube and density of the liquid. Soils contain a complex network of pores, which slows down capillary action, and the water potential in soil is less negative than in plants, resulting in a smaller height of rise.

Explanation:

The height of rise in a capillary tube compared to soil is determined by the principle of capillary action. This phenomenon describes the ability of a liquid to flow against gravity in a narrow space due to adhesive and cohesive forces. In a capillary tube, the water rises until the weight of the water and the adhesive forces are in balance.

As illustrated in Figure 11.32, capillary action depends on the radius of a tube. The smaller the tube, the greater the height reached. The height is negligible for large-radius tubes (like a capillary tube). Conversely, a denser fluid in the same tube rises to a smaller height, all other factors being the same.

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