The saying "blood is thicker than water" is often used to suggest that family ties are stronger than any other kind of relationship. However, this proverb is actually a misinterpretation of the original saying, "the blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb." This original meaning emphasizes the importance of chosen bonds over familial ones.
When discussing the viscosity (thickness) of water and blood, blood is indeed thicker than water. Blood plasma, the liquid component of blood, exhibits a different flow behavior than water, demonstrating a higher flow resistance.
This difference in viscosity is due to the presence of various components in blood, such as:
- Red blood cells: These cells carry oxygen throughout the body, giving blood its characteristic red color.
- White blood cells: These cells fight infections and other invaders.
- Platelets: These cells help clot blood.
- Proteins: These molecules help regulate blood pressure, fight infections, and transport nutrients.
All these components contribute to the higher viscosity of blood compared to water.
