Question:
Which one of the following properties is primarily responsible for spreading of oil uniformly on water?
Which one of the following properties is primarily responsible for spreading of oil uniformly on water?
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Water has a high surface tension, which is why it can "pull" substances like oil or soap across its surface.
Updated On: May 13, 2026
- Viscosity
- Partition coefficient
- Dipole moment
- Surface tension
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Concept
Spreading occurs when the adhesive forces between two different substances are stronger than the cohesive forces within one substance.
Step 2: Meaning
Surface tension is the energy required to increase the surface area of a liquid.
Step 3: Analysis
When oil is placed on water, the surface tension of water pulls the oil drops outward. If the surface tension of water is significantly higher than that of the oil, the oil spreads into a thin film to minimize the total surface energy.
Step 4: Conclusion
Thus, surface tension is the primary physical property governing this phenomenon. Final Answer: (D)
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