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

7237 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

If f(x)= ln(x^2)-4, give f^-1(x)


What is the Quark structure, Baryon number, and antiparticle of a kaon, K+, which has a strangeness of 1.


An ideal gas within a closed system undergoes an isothermal expansion from an initial volume of 1m^3 to 2m^3. Given that the initial pressure of the gas is 10^5 Pa, find the final pressure of the gas following the expansion.


A circuit with a voltage source of 18V, has 3 resistors all connected on parallel, values at 2ohms, 6ohms and 7.5ohms. Find the total circuit resistance, and then subsequently, the total current supplied and power dissipated in the curcuit.


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