Surface colours of a Soap Bubble C016 / 6361
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Surface colours of a Soap Bubble C016 / 6361
Soap bubble colours. The movement in the thin film is due to the interaction between gravity and buoyancy in the liquid. The colours are produced by the interference of light waves reflected from the upper and lower surfaces of the film. As the thickness of the film is of a similar magnitude to the wavelength of visible light, the interference patterns appear as bands of colour, related to the thickness of the film. Thicker walls cause interference at longer (redder) wavelengths, so appear bluer and greener. As the film thins through evaporation or other processes, the reflected light cancels out yellow then green then blue light, appearing blue, magenta and golden yellow, before becoming too thin to support itself, and popping. Research into film behaviour has increased understanding of the fluid dynamics, for instance of movements of cloud bands in the atmosphere of Jupiter and Saturn
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9239591
© DAVID PARKER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Atmosphere Blue Bubble Color Colour Dynamics Film Fluid Gravity Interference Jupiter Light Liquid Magenta Reflected Light Saturn Soap Spectrum Wavelength Yellow Light Waves
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "Surface colours of a Soap Bubble" showcases the mesmerizing spectrum of hues found in soap bubbles. The movement observed within the thin film is a result of the intricate interplay between gravity and buoyancy in the liquid. The vibrant colors that adorn these delicate spheres are produced through the interference of light waves reflecting from both the upper and lower surfaces of the film. The thickness of this film, which closely matches the wavelength of visible light, gives rise to stunning bands of color as a consequence of interference patterns. Thicker walls generate interference at longer wavelengths, resulting in bluer and greener appearances. As evaporation or other processes cause the film to thin, reflected light gradually cancels out yellow, green, and blue tones, eventually revealing shades ranging from blue to magenta and golden yellow. Beyond their aesthetic allure, studying soap bubble behavior has significantly contributed to our understanding of fluid dynamics. This research has shed light on various phenomena such as cloud band movements within Jupiter's and Saturn's atmospheres. Through this remarkable image captured by David Parker for Science Photo Library, we are reminded not only of nature's ability to create breathtaking displays but also how scientific exploration can unravel hidden complexities within seemingly simple occurrences like soap bubbles.
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