Energies Associated with a Meniscus along a Flat Vertical Wall

In this theoretical work, existing equations for the height and shape of a liquid meniscus along a vertical flat wall are used to estimate the volume and energies associated with its formation. A mechanism and an associated energy balance are proposed. Equations for the work of wetting, surface energy, gravitational energy, and dissipation are derived. This analysis shows that the energy spontaneously released during wetting is either stored in the air-liquid interface of the newly formed meniscus, stored in its bulk liquid as gravitational energy, or dissipated as heat. The absolute magnitude of these energies depends on the surface tension and density of the liquid as well as the wettability of the wall.

Automated summary

This theoretical work estimates the volume and energies associated with the formation of a liquid meniscus along a vertical flat wall using existing equations. A proposed mechanism and energy balance is presented, along with derived equations for wetting work, surface energy, gravitational energy, and dissipation. The analysis indicates that the energy released during wetting is stored in various forms depending on variables such as surface tension, density, and wall wettability.