Fiveable
Fiveable

Cohesion

Definition

Cohesion refers to the tendency for particles or molecules of the same substance to stick together.

Analogy

Cohesion is like a group of best friends at a party. They tend to stick together because they have similar interests and enjoy each other's company, just like water molecules sticking together due to their hydrogen bonds.

Related terms

Adhesion: This refers to the tendency for different types of particles or molecules to stick together.

Surface Tension: This is the elastic tendency of liquids which makes them acquire the least surface area possible, often caused by cohesion.

Hydrogen Bonding: A type of bond that forms when a hydrogen atom bonded to one electronegative atom is also attracted to another electronegative atom.

"Cohesion" appears in:

collegeable - rocket pep

Are you a college student?

  • Study guides for the entire semester

  • 200k practice questions

  • Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab



© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.