Difference Between Fluid and Liquid
You may be wondering if there is really any difference between fluid and liquid. Both terms seem to refer to the same things, right? Well, these substances may be similar in a lot of ways, but if you’re a scientist who works with different states of matter, then you may want to be more distinct.
Scientists believe that these two forms of matter are not exactly the same, unlike what many people believe. So, if these two forms are not the same, then what is the difference between fluid and liquid? If you want to know the answer to this question, then read on as we unfold their disparities.
Definition of Fluid
A fluid is defined as a form of matter that can flow from one place to another through any opening without showing any traits of rigidity. This means that the particles that make up a substance that can be referred to as such may be loosely held to each other; little or no severity or internal restrictions. This makes it possible for them to freely move if there are no boundaries holding them. So, basically, anything that can run or pour falls under this category.
According to scientists, this definition of fluid applies to any form of matter that can “flow”, referring to both liquids and gases. They can also assume the physical shape of the container holding them and “may” also assume the volume of the container holding them.
Definition of Liquid
A liquid is simply defined as a phase of matter which depends on the prevailing temperature and pressure of a particular substance. In this case, the particles that make up the substance are also loosely held together, but they may have a little viscosity which helps them to maintain their volume when placed in a container. They have no specific shapes, so they tend to take up the shape of the container they are placed in.
From the definition of liquid, you can tell that this form of matter can also flow from one point to another. In essence, all liquids can be referred to as fluids, but not all fluids (specifically most gases) can be referred to as liquids.
Fluid vs Liquid Comparison Table
| Basis of Comparison | Fluid | Liquid |
| Definition | A form of matter that can flow from one place to another through any opening without showing any traits of rigidity | A phase of matter which depends on the prevailing temperature and pressure of a particular substance |
| Nature | It may or may not possess some level of viscosity | It has volume but no shape |
| Reference to gas and liquid | Yes | No gas, only liquids |
| Examples | Water, air, honey, mercury, gasoline, etc. | Water, urine, blood, milk, wine, coffee, etc. |
Conclusion of the Main Difference Between Fluid vs Liquid
One thing you have to remember with regards to the difference between fluid vs liquid is that the first is made of anything that can flow while the second one is made of just liquids. When you understand this, you’ll not be confused when the disparities between these two forms arise.
