Why does cornstarch and water act as a solid when force is applied?

Cornstarch and water create a non-Newtonian fluid known as a shear-thickening fluid. When force is applied, the particles of cornstarch are forced closer together, increasing the resistance to flow and causing the mixture to behave like a solid. This unique property allows it to absorb energy and resist deformation under sudden stress, while remaining fluid under gentle conditions. Thus, it exhibits solid-like behavior under rapid or forceful application.