Surface energy per unit area of a surface is numerically equal to A. atmospheric pressure B. surface tension C. force of adhesion D. force of cohesion

atmospheric pressure
surface tension
force of adhesion
force of cohesion

The correct answer is: B. surface tension.

Surface tension is a property of matter that causes cohesive forces between like molecules to act across a surface. This force pulls the surface molecules together, trying to minimize the surface area. Surface tension is what allows water to bead up on a surface, and it is also what causes insects to be able to walk on water.

Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of the air above a given point on Earth’s surface. It is equal to about 14.7 pounds per square inch (psi) at sea level.

Force of adhesion is the force that holds two dissimilar materials together. It is caused by the attraction between the molecules of the two materials.

Force of cohesion is the force that holds two similar materials together. It is caused by the attraction between the molecules of the same material.

In conclusion, surface tension is the only option that is a property of matter that causes cohesive forces between like molecules to act across a surface.