Viscous Science: Why Smacking the Ketchup Bottle Works?
Why does giving the ketchup bottle an upward smack loosen the ketchup?
Options:
A. Viscosity
B. Friction
C. Gravity
D. Adhesion
Final answer:
The upward smack on a ketchup bottle reduces the viscosity of the ketchup, allowing it to flow freely. This happens because the force from the smack temporarily changes the fluid's properties and overcomes the forces of cohesion and adhesion. Therefore, the correct option is D. Adhesion.
Answer:
When giving the ketchup bottle an upward smack, the force produced serves to overcome the ketchup's viscosity, a property that describes its resistance to flow. The upward smack introduces a force that momentarily separates the ketchup from the side of the bottle, reducing friction and allowing it to move more freely. Once the ketchup starts moving, gravity assists in dispensing it out of the bottle. The correct answer is A. Viscosity.
The phenomenon can be explained by reference to Newton's laws, which outline the principles of inertia and imparted forces. In this scenario, the ketchup behaves as a non-Newtonian fluid, meaning its viscosity changes under stress or strain. By applying a force, we temporarily change the fluid's properties, allowing it to flow more easily.
Note that cohesion and adhesion are also fundamental aspects in understanding the behavior of fluids. Cohesion keeps the ketchup clinging together while adhesion makes it stick to the bottle, but a swift smack creates enough disturbance to overcome these forces as well.