Dynamic viscosity measures a fluid’s resistance to deformation by shear or tensile stress, usually in centipoise (cP) or millipascal-second (mPa·s). It describes the internal friction in a fluid layer between moving plates, where higher friction requires more force to maintain movement.
Dynamic viscosity varies with temperature, so measurements must include the temperature. Tools like the Brookfield Viscometer measure dynamic viscosity by rotating a spindle in the fluid and measuring the resulting torque.