Rheology is the field of science that deals with deformation and flow of materials in both liquid and solid states.
Ideal liquids (Newtonian Liquids) only have one coefficient of viscosity at any one temperature. Most liquids are not ideal and require measurement of both shear and stress rates to adequately explain their flow and deformation.
Many fluids also have complex micro-structures and rheological analysis is required to properly elucidate their flow properties. Based upon this structure, predictions of mechanical behavior can also be determined.
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