Final answer:
Oil rises up along with the wick in a kerosene lamp due to capillary action, which is driven by cohesive and adhesive forces between the liquid and the solid surface of the wick.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a kerosene lamp, oil rises up along with the wick due to a process called capillary action. Capillary action is the result of cohesive forces between the liquid molecules and adhesive forces between the liquid and the solid surface of the wick. The liquid oil is drawn up the narrow spaces within the wick, against the force of gravity.
This phenomenon can be explained by the principles of intermolecular forces. Adhesive forces between the kerosene and the wick result in the liquid climbing up the wick. The narrow spaces between the fibers of the wick provide a capillary tube effect, which promotes the upward movement of the liquid.
It is important to note that not all liquids exhibit capillary action. The properties of the liquid, such as surface tension and adhesive forces, determine whether or not it will rise along with the wick in a kerosene lamp.
Learn more about Capillary Action