Forces in Liquids

Cohesion is the combined effect of the forces of attraction between particles close to each other in the same substance.
Surface Tension is the cohesion at the surface of liquids. Detergents and liquid temperature affect surface tension.
Examples of Cohesion and Surface Tension - the rounded shape of a water droplet, clasped pointed hands of divers to reduce surface tension, reduction of surface tension for divers by fountains spraying into the diving pool

Adhesion is the combined effect of the forces of attraction between the particles in different substances close to each other.
Capillary Action is the effect that causes liquids to rise or fall in fine tubes. The finer the tube, the higher the liquid will rise up the tube.
Meniscus - The meniscus is the curved surface of a liquid such as water in a glass or mercury in a thermometer. The curve is caused by the adhesive attraction between the liquid and its container.
Examples of Adhesion and Capillary Action - Meniscus of water in a glass, the movement of water through the tubes in a tree

Mrs. Remis' Science Blog - 7th grade