If you know the answer, why are you asking the question?Hornbein said:Bubbles of air were rising in some water in a rice field. The bubbles would float around at random for a while. If two bubbles got within a certain distance of one another they would very quickly merge. Why is that? (I know the answer.) There was no soap or other surfactant in the water.
I think it is interesting and readers would have fun contemplating it. The puzzle is not obvious but easy enough that some will get it without much trouble. I learned from it and am sharing so that others may learn too.phinds said:If you know the answer, why are you asking the question?
Plain ordinary air entrained by moving water.Baluncore said:Surface tension will cause nearby bubbles to be attracted as the water level is slightly higher, attracted to the bubble wall, but slightly depressed under the bubble since the gas pressure in the bubble is greater than outside.
Are the bubbles composed of O2, CO2, or H2S ?
How long did the big bubble last ?Hornbein said:As to "why are there bubbles," they didn't last long, only a few seconds.
Rice field bubbles, also known as methane ebullition, are gas bubbles that form in the soil of rice fields. They occur due to the decomposition of organic matter in the soil, which produces methane gas. The gas then rises to the surface and forms bubbles, which can be seen as small patches of shimmering water on the surface of the rice field.
Rice field bubbles play an important role in the global carbon cycle. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and the bubbles release large amounts of it into the atmosphere. This contributes to the warming of the Earth's climate. Additionally, the bubbles can also deplete oxygen levels in the soil, which can have negative impacts on plant growth and nutrient cycling.
Rice field bubbles themselves are not harmful to humans. However, the methane gas they release can be dangerous if it accumulates in high concentrations. Methane is flammable and can also displace oxygen, leading to suffocation in enclosed spaces. Therefore, it is important to monitor and manage rice field bubbles to prevent any potential risks.
Yes, rice field bubbles can be controlled and prevented through various management practices. These include reducing the amount of organic matter in the soil, minimizing the amount of standing water in the rice field, and using alternative rice cultivation methods such as dry seeding. Additionally, the use of certain additives and chemicals can also help to reduce methane emissions from rice fields.
Studying rice field bubbles is important for understanding their role in the global carbon cycle and their impact on the environment. By understanding the factors that influence the formation and release of methane from rice fields, we can develop more sustainable and environmentally-friendly methods of rice cultivation. This research also has implications for mitigating the effects of climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.