Adhesion is a term that is commonly used in the fields of chemistry, physics, and biology. It refers to the force that causes two different substances to stick together. This phenomenon is observed in a wide range of materials, from the adhesive properties of glue to the way that water molecules stick to surfaces.
Definitions
The definition of adhesion is straightforward: it is the force that causes two substances to stick together. This force can be caused by a variety of factors, including the chemical properties of the substances, the surface area of the materials, and the presence of other substances that can act as a bonding agent.
Origin
The word “adhesion” comes from the Latin word “adhæsio,” which means “to stick to.” The concept of adhesion has been studied for centuries, with early scientists and philosophers attempting to understand why certain substances stick together while others do not.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, adhesion is “the act or state of sticking together.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the action or process of adhering to a surface or object.” Both definitions highlight the idea that adhesion is a force that causes two substances to stick together.
Associations
Adhesion is often associated with materials that are used to bond or glue things together, such as tape, glue, and adhesives. However, it is also observed in natural phenomena, such as the way that water molecules stick to surfaces or the way that geckos are able to climb walls.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of adhesion include adherence, attachment, cohesion, and sticking.
Antonyms
Antonyms of adhesion include detachment, separation, and disconnection.
The same root words
Other words that share the same root as adhesion include adhere, adhesive, and adhesiveness.
Example Sentences
- The adhesion of the tape was so strong that it was difficult to remove.
- The gecko’s ability to climb walls is due to the adhesion of its feet to the surface.
- The adhesion of the paint to the wall was poor, causing it to peel easily.
- The adhesion of the bandage to the skin was so strong that it stayed in place for days.
- The adhesion of the water molecules to the surface of the glass created a meniscus.