Segment V1.4: Non-Newtonian Behavior

(Related to Textbook Section 1.6 - Viscosity)

Fluids for which shearing stress is not linearly related to the rate of shearing strain are designated as non-Newtonian fluids.

A mixture of water and corn starch, when placed on a flat surface, flows as a thick, viscous fluid. However, when the mixture is rapidly disturbed, it appears to fracture and behave more like a solid. The mixture is a non-Newtonian shear thickening fluid which becomes more viscous as the shearing rate is suddenly increased through the rapid action of the spoon.