Surface colours of a Soap Bubble C016 / 6364
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Surface colours of a Soap Bubble C016 / 6364
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 9239835
© 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 movement and vibrant hues found within a soap bubble. The delicate dance of gravity and buoyancy in the liquid creates an enchanting spectacle, while also offering valuable insights into fluid dynamics. The stunning array of colors seen in the thin film results from the interference of light waves reflected from both its upper and lower surfaces. As the film's thickness closely matches that of visible light wavelengths, it gives rise to distinct bands of color. Thicker walls exhibit interference at longer (redder) wavelengths, resulting in shades leaning towards blue and green. However, as evaporation or other processes cause the film to gradually thin out, a fascinating transformation occurs. The reflected light begins canceling out yellow followed by green and then blue tones, giving way to a breathtaking display of blues, magentas, and golden yellows before ultimately becoming too fragile to sustain itself—popping away like magic. Beyond their aesthetic allure, these soap bubbles hold great scientific significance. Research into their behavior has deepened our understanding of fluid dynamics across various fields. For instance, studying movements akin to cloud bands on Jupiter and Saturn's atmospheres has been made possible through unraveling the secrets hidden within these ephemeral spheres. This remarkable photograph by DAVID PARKER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY encapsulates not only beauty but also knowledge—a testament to how art can intertwine with science for greater enlightenment about our world.
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