Multiple choice

Why do raindrops gain the shape of a sphere?

  1. Due to friction

  2. Due to surface tension

  3. Due to atmospheric pressure

  4. Due to viscosity of water

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Raindrops become spherical due to surface tension, which is the cohesive force between water molecules. Surface tension minimizes the surface area for a given volume, and a sphere has the smallest possible surface area. Friction, atmospheric pressure, and viscosity affect raindrop size and fall speed but not their fundamental shape.