Repulsion is that property in matter by which it repels or recedes from, those bodies for which it has no attraction or affinity.
793. Why does dew form into round drops upon the leaves of plants?
Because it repels the air, and the substances of the leaves upon which it rests. Because, also, its own particles cohere.
794. Why do drops of water roll over dusty surfaces?
Because they repel the particles of dust; and also because their own particles have a stronger attraction for each other than for the particles of dust.
795. Why does a needle float when carefully laid upon the surface of water?
Because the needle and the water mutually repel each other.
796. Why does water, when dropped upon hot iron, move about in agitated globules?