Water and Wastewater Terms Beginning V

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

viscosity (vis-KOSS-uh-tee)

A property of water, or any other fluid, that resists efforts to change its shape or flow. Syrup is more viscous (has a higher viscosity) than water. The viscosity of water increases significantly as temperatures decrease. Motor oil is rated by how thick (viscous) it is; 20-weight oil is considered relatively thin while 50-weight oil is relatively thick or viscous.