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

7081 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A ball is hit horizontally at a height of 1.2 m and travels a horizontal distance of 5.0 m before reaching the ground. The ball is at rest when hit. Calculate the initial horizontal velocity given to the ball when it was hit.


If a wire loop moves at constant speed into a region where there is a magnetic field, why is a current induced in the wire?


A phone is knocked off a table 800cm of the ground. If the phone is 650g a) what is the gravational potential of the phone? b)what speed will the phone hit the floor at? c)How long will it take for the phone to hit the floor?


Derive the Drift Velocity Equation


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