Cohesion – the force of cohesion is defined as the force of attraction between molecules of the same substance.
Example – due to hydrogen bonding water is very cohesive. The cohesive forces between liquid molecules are responsible for the phenomenon known as surface tension. This property allows insects to walk on water.
Adhesion – The force of adhesion is defined as the force of attraction between different substances, such as, glass and water. Adhesion between water and glass causes water to rise in a narrow tube against the force of gravity.
Example: the forces that draw water out of the roots of the plants and up into its stems and leaves, this is called capillarity.