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Chapter 12: Problem 14

A television commercial claims that a product makes water "wetter" Can there be any basis to this claim? Explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Yes, there can be a basis to the claim that a certain product makes water 'wetter'. This is because the product in question might act as a surfactant, reducing the surface tension of water. As a result, the water could spread out more easily and consequently be considered 'wetter'.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Concept of 'Wetter'

First, it's important to understand the concept of 'wetter'. In this context, 'wetter' means that the water is more efficient at dampening or soaking a surface. This 'wetness' is actually determined by the surface tension of the water.
02

Role of Surface Tension

The higher the surface tension, the less likely the water is to spread out or soak into surfaces, making it 'less wet'. Conversely, if the surface tension is lowered, the water can spread out more easily and hence it is considered 'wetter'.
03

Explaining the Effect of a Product on Water

The product claimed in the commercial to make water 'wetter' must be acting as a surfactant - a substance that decreases the surface tension of the water. By reducing the surface tension, the product would allow the water to spread more easily and wet surfaces more effectively.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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