Which statement is true about cohesion?

Cohesion refers specifically to the attraction between like molecules. This property is critical in various physical phenomena, such as the ability of water molecules to stick together, which results in surface tension. For example, when water is poured into a glass, the drops tend to hold together rather than separate completely, demonstrating strong cohesion among the water molecules.

This distinction is essential because cohesion is fundamentally different from adhesion, which is the attraction of unlike molecules. Understanding this concept helps in applications ranging from fluid mechanics to the design of certain materials and structures, where the cohesive forces can significantly influence behavior. Recognizing that cohesion is about like molecules aids in grasping how these forces interact in various states of matter and conditions.