Does refraction lead to energy loss

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the energy loss associated with vibrational damping in bubble wrap, identifying three primary contributors: surface tension, volume change in bubble chambers, and reflection at boundary layers. The participants explore whether refraction contributes to energy loss, particularly in the context of sound waves. It is established that while refraction may play a role, the primary mechanisms of energy dissipation are surface tension and volume changes requiring work.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of mechanical wave propagation
  • Knowledge of vibrational damping principles
  • Familiarity with surface tension effects in materials
  • Basic concepts of energy transfer in physical systems
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  • Research the effects of surface tension on mechanical wave propagation
  • Study the principles of vibrational damping in various materials
  • Explore the relationship between volume changes in gas-filled chambers and energy loss
  • Investigate the role of reflection and refraction in wave mechanics
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Physicists, material scientists, and engineers interested in wave mechanics and energy dissipation in materials.

sunrah
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Considering the vibrational damping of bubble wrap. My basic premise is that there are three main contributors to the damping effect:

1) Surface tension of the sheet structure and the bubbles themselves when subject to applied force causes dissipation of force away from applied direction
2) The change of volume of the bubble chambers (filled with air) requires work to be done: energy loss!
3) Reflexion at boundary layers: a very small portion of the propagating vibrations (mechanical waves) are reflected back at each boundary.

I'm wondering if refraction would also contribute. Any ideas would be appreciated.
 
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2) The change of volume of the bubble chambers (filled with air) requires work to be done: energy loss!
If this happens quick enough to neglect temperature exchange, you get the work back at expansion.

Refraction of what? Sound? But that is just what you describe.
 

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