Multiple choice

Why does a drop of liquid assume a spherical shape?

  1. Because a sphere has the least surface area for a given volume.

  2. Because a sphere has the largest surface area for a given volume.

  3. Because intermolecular forces are strong in liquids.

  4. Because intermolecular forces are weak in liquids.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

Surface tension causes liquids to minimize their surface area. For a given volume, a sphere has the smallest surface area of any geometric shape.

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