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non-newtonian fluid
Definition
Most fluids, like water, behave in a way that is predictable. They flow smoothly and their viscosity, or thickness, does not change much with force. However, there are some fluids that do not behave this way. These fluids are called non-Newtonian fluids.
Non-Newtonian fluids can act like solids or liquids depending on how much force is applied to them. For example, if you slowly stir a non-Newtonian fluid, it will flow like a liquid. However, if you hit it hard, it will behave like a solid and resist your force.
Some examples of non-Newtonian fluids include:
- Oobleck: Oobleck is a non-Newtonian fluid that is made from cornstarch and water. It is thick and gooey when you stir it slowly, but it becomes hard and rubbery when you hit it hard.
- Slime: Slime is another non-Newtonian fluid that is made from glue, water, and borax. It is stretchy and gooey when you play with it, but it becomes hard and rubbery when you hit it hard.
- Toothpaste: Toothpaste is a non-Newtonian fluid that is made from water, soap, and abrasives. It is thick and creamy when you squeeze it out of the tube, but it becomes thin and runny when you brush your teeth.
How can the word be used?
Non-Newtonian fluids are often used in applications where it is important to control the flow of fluids.
Different forms of the word
Noun: A fluid whose viscosity is not constant, but depends on the applied shear stress.
Adjective: Relating to non-Newtonian fluids.
Etymology
The word "non-Newtonian" is made up of the prefix "non-," which means "not," and the name of Isaac Newton, the English physicist who developed the laws of motion. Newton's laws of motion describe how objects move under the influence of forces.
The word "non-Newtonian fluid" was first used in the early 20th century. It was used to describe fluids that did not follow Newton's laws of motion.
Question
What is a non-newtonian fluid?