Kapillärregim

Kapillärregim refers to the behavior of fluids within narrow passages, typically on the scale of capillaries or pores. This phenomenon is governed by the interplay of cohesive forces within the fluid and adhesive forces between the fluid and the surrounding material. Surface tension plays a crucial role, causing liquids to rise or fall in narrow tubes, a process known as capillary action or wicking.

The height to which a liquid rises in a capillary tube depends on the liquid's surface tension, the contact angle between the liquid and the tube wall, the tube's radius, and the liquid's density. If the adhesive forces are stronger than the cohesive forces (leading to a small contact angle), the liquid will wet the surface and rise. Conversely, if cohesive forces dominate (large contact angle), the liquid will be repelled, and its level will be depressed.

Capillärregim is fundamental to numerous natural and industrial processes. In biology, it explains how water is transported from the soil up through the xylem in plants and how blood flows through capillaries in the circulatory system. In material science, it influences the impregnation of porous materials with liquids, such as in painting, printing, and the manufacture of filters. Understanding kapillärregim is essential for designing and optimizing systems where fluid transport in confined spaces is critical.