Question:

Surface tension of liquids is:

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Surface tension always originates from intermolecular cohesive forces, which are electromagnetic in nature.
Updated On: Jun 19, 2026
  • An electromagnetic force
  • A weak nuclear force
  • A viscous force
  • A magnetic force
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand the origin of surface tension.
Surface tension arises due to intermolecular cohesive forces between liquid molecules.

Step 2: Nature of intermolecular forces.

These cohesive forces are fundamentally electromagnetic in origin, arising from interactions between charged particles (electrons and nuclei).

Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options.

- Weak nuclear force: acts at nuclear scale, not macroscopic fluids
- Viscous force: related to fluid flow resistance, not origin of surface tension
- Magnetic force: not responsible for molecular cohesion in liquids

Step 4: Key physical interpretation.

Surface tension is a manifestation of molecular attraction at the liquid surface due to electromagnetic interactions.

Step 5: Final conclusion.

Hence, surface tension is fundamentally electromagnetic in nature.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{An electromagnetic force}} \]
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