Referring to a fluid that resists flow; it exhibits a high internal friction, meaning its molecules strongly attract or interlock with each other. This characteristic makes the fluid thick and slow-moving. The higher the viscosity, the more energy is required to make the fluid deform or change shape. This property is crucial in various applications, from lubricating machinery to controlling the flow of industrial materials. It's essentially the opposite of being 'thin' or 'runny'. The resistance to flow is a defining characteristic.
High-viscosity meaning with examples
- The maple syrup had such high-viscosity that it barely dripped from the bottle, taking several seconds to finally cascade onto the pancakes. We had to warm it slightly to ease the flow and make it more pourable. This made for a slow, thick, and delicious breakfast treat!
- During the manufacturing process of the glue, the chemist carefully monitored the high-viscosity of the adhesive, knowing that it directly impacted its bonding strength. A slightly less viscous formulation produced less effective results. They aimed for the ideal thick consistency.
- The engineer selected a high-viscosity oil to lubricate the heavily-loaded gears in the industrial machine. This would provide superior protection, resisting the pressure and preventing metal-to-metal contact. It ensured the long life of the equipment.
- After heating the honey, its high-viscosity decreased, making it easier to stir into the tea. The heat reduced the internal friction, resulting in a smoother texture. The warmed honey had a more desirable consistency for this application.