Plastic flow Thixotropy Dilatant flow Buffer capacity Isotonic solution

 

1. Plastic Flow: Plastic flow refers to the deformation of a material that occurs when a certain threshold of stress is exceeded. Unlike elastic deformation, where the material returns to its original shape after stress is removed, plastic deformation results in permanent changes to the material's shape. This is typical of materials like metals and some polymers when subjected to stress beyond their yield point.

2. Thixotropy: Thixotropy is a property of certain gels and liquids that become less viscous (more fluid) when shaken, stirred, or otherwise stressed, and then return to a more viscous state when left to stand. This time-dependent shear thinning behavior is common in substances like ketchup, certain clays, and some paints.

3. Dilatant Flow: Dilatant flow refers to the behavior of certain materials that become more viscous and thicker when subjected to increasing shear stress. Unlike thixotropic materials, which become less viscous with stress, dilatant materials exhibit an increase in viscosity as the rate of shear strain increases. Common examples include cornstarch suspensions and some non-Newtonian fluids.

4. Buffer Capacity: Buffer capacity is a measure of the ability of a buffer solution to resist changes in pH when small amounts of an acid or a base are added. It is influenced by the concentration and the nature of the buffer components. A solution with high buffer capacity can neutralize more added acid or base without significant changes in pH.

5. Isotonic Solution: An isotonic solution is one where the concentration of solutes is equal on both sides of a semipermeable membrane, leading to no net movement of water in or out of a cell or solution. This balance prevents the cell from shrinking or swelling due to osmosis. Isotonic solutions are often used in medical settings for intravenous infusions to ensure that cells maintain their normal shape and function.