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

7235 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is the refractive index of water bigger than that of air?


How do I solve a problem about a mass on a slide?


Describe Newton's second law.


State what is meant by resonance and provide some examples where it is crucial.


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