Measurements of the Surface Tension of a Magnetic Fluid and Interfacial Phenomena

Abstract

The surface tension of a magnetic fluid subjected to a magnetic field tangential to its surface was measured. The surface tension of water-based magnetic fluid decreased with increases in the mass concentration on the constant strength of the external field. On the contrary, however, the surface tension of kerosine-based magnetic fluid increased. The surface tension of magnetic fluid increased slightly with the strength of magnetic field. The interfacial tension between nonmagnetic and magnetic fluids was measured. The interfacial tension also increased with the external field. Based on the measurements of the surface tension, the deformation of a drop of magnetized liquid in a magnetic field was investigated. The elongation of a magnetic drop was measured. The experimental results were compared with the theoretical values determined by the minima of energy.