Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
dilatant
Adjective
/dɪˈleɪtənt/
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Definition
A type of material that becomes more viscous when subjected to stress or shear, resulting in an increase in volume.
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Examples
- The dilatant behavior of the cornstarch and water mixture makes it unique in the world of non-Newtonian fluids.
- When the paint is stirred rapidly, it shows dilatant properties, becoming more difficult to mix.
- In the experiment, the dilatant paste demonstrated how shear applied resulted in a significant increase in viscosity.
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Meaning
In its simplest terms, dilatant refers to substances that expand under pressure and become thicker or more resistant to flow.
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Synonyms
- Thickening
- Viscous
- Non-Newtonian