Question

Nico is sorting foods in his refrigerator for a class project. He is not certain how to classify strawberry jam. A spoonful of jam has a definite shape and volume, but only if he does not tip the spoon. Which classification best describes the jam?

Answer 1

Strawberry jam would be classified as a non-Newtonian fluid. This type of fluid does not have a constant viscosity and its flow behavior changes depending on the amount of stress or shear applied to it. When the spoon is not tipped, the jam holds its shape and volume, behaving like a solid. However, when the spoon is tipped, the jam flows like a liquid. Other examples of non-Newtonian fluids include ketchup, blood, and paint.