👉 A contracting fluid, also known as a viscous fluid, is a type of fluid that exhibits both fluid-like and solid-like properties due to its ability to flow under stress but also to maintain a certain shape or structure when at rest. This unique characteristic arises from the intermolecular forces within the fluid, which can cause it to resist deformation when subjected to external forces. When a contracting fluid is compressed, the molecules are pushed closer together, increasing the fluid's internal resistance and resulting in a decrease in volume. This behavior is particularly evident in biological systems, such as blood, where the viscosity of blood can change based on factors like temperature and the presence of certain substances, affecting its flow properties.
