An illustration of hydrophobic versus hydrophilic properties
Hydrophobic materials repel water, while hydrophilic materials attract or absorb water. Factors such as the texture and chemical makeup of the surface determine if a material is hydrophobic or hydrophilic. Materials like lotus leaves, magic sand and nano-tex fabric are all examples of hydrophobic materials. Materials like sodium polyacrylate (found in diapers) and instant snow are hydrophilic materials.
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