Unraveling the Science Behind Wetness: Moisturizing Creams, Protective Skin and Hair Functions, and Unique Stork Neck Structures

Wetness refers to the interaction between a liquid and a surface when water is applied. In skin care, moisturizing creams contain ingredients that help retain moisture. The name “Sodavesi” comes from the past when soda was added to water. Human skin and hair have various functions, such as protection and enhancing the sense of touch. Storks have a unique neck structure that allows them to bend their necks and strike quickly with their beaks. Akseli Alanen, 8, has shown interest in these topics.

In science, wetness involves how well a liquid interacts with a surface it is applied to. For example, water behaves differently on a greasy plate compared to a clean one. Conducting simple experiments at home, like water dripping on plates, can demonstrate this concept. In daily life, wetness is associated with the feeling of moisture on the skin or in the eyes.

Moisturizing products work by absorbing water into the skin through ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which binds over 1000 times its weight in water. This creates an even film that stays on the skin for a long time. Surfaces other than skin can also retain moisture, such as sandy roads treated with calcium chloride in summer to reduce pollution.

Kjell Knapas, a chemistry university teacher and researcher at the University of Helsinki, sheds light on wetness as a property in various contexts.

Overall, understanding wetness is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and hair while also ensuring safety in different environments.