The Age Old Question about Chamois and Sponges

[gto78]

So why exactly is it that sponges and chamois absorb more water when wet than when they are dry???? You would expect something that is dry to be able to absorb more water, not smear it away. I have heard many quick answers, but never one that is a true explanation. I always still have the question- WHY?.....

[MongooseGA]

I would think that it`s because they are softer when damp, and can form a seal with the surface.



Outside of that, I have no clue.

[togwt]

A wet towel is able to break the surface tension ( that`s what make the water adhere to the paint) and absorb (lift) the water , a dry towel just glides over the wet surface without breaking the `seal` (the surface tension)



JonM

[gto78]

WHY....... LOL.... oh well, i`ll never be a scientist.