dripping

Dripping refers to the intermittent release of liquid in the form of droplets from a source, such as a faucet, pipe, or container. It is characterized by the periodic formation and detachment of droplets, often producing a recognizable rhythm and audible sound. Dripping can occur when a steady flow is interrupted by surface tension and adhesion forces, allowing individual droplets to form and fall. The phenomenon is observed with many liquids and in diverse environments, from household plumbing to natural systems.

Physically, a droplet begins to form at an orifice or along a surface when liquid accumulates and the weight of the impending drop exceeds the cohesive and adhesive forces holding the liquid to the source. Gravity pulls on the forming drop, while surface tension and viscosity shape its size and detachment point. The dripping rate depends on factors such as flow rate, liquid viscosity, surface tension, the size of the opening, and ambient conditions like temperature and air resistance. The smaller orifices tend to produce slower, more regular drips; larger ones may drip more quickly or form a continuous jet before breaking into drops.

Common contexts include leaks in plumbing and containers, where a dripping faucet wastes water; drip irrigation systems that release water to plants; and environmental observations such as droplets forming on surfaces after rain or dew. In medicine, nasal discharge with a similar ‘dripping’ sensation is referred to as post-nasal drip, where mucus drains down the back of the throat and can indicate irritation or infection. Addressing dripping typically involves repairing the source, replacing seals or gaskets, or adjusting flow controls to reduce or eliminate droplet formation.