The viscosity of water and of blood in small diameter capillary tubes 1

Abstract

The absolute viscosity of water and relative viscosity of blood were measured by the transpiration method using 15 viscometers of different radii and lengths. Contrary to a recent investigation, there was no evidence that the viscosity of water is anomalous. The absolute, viscosity of water obtained was within 0.4 per cent of the published value at 38°C. Canine blood, on the other hand displayed a decrease in relative viscosity with decreasing capillary diameter, confirming the Fahraeus-Lindqvist effect.