What is viscosity?

Viscosity is a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. It describes the internal friction of a moving fluid. A fluid with large viscosity resists motion because its molecular makeup gives it a lot of internal friction. A fluid with low viscosity flows easily because its molecular makeup results in very little friction when it is in motion.
Gases also have viscosity, although it is a little harder to notice it in ordinary circumstances.

JN
Answered by Juan N. Physics tutor

7221 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can you tell if a reaction will happen?


A conical pendulum is a mass suspended from a point that traces out a horizontal circle. By balancing the weight with the tension in the string, determine the speed of the bob.


Can you please explain the significance of photoelectric effect?


In the photoelectric effect, what happens as you increase the frequency of light keeping the same intensity constant?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning