How do freezing bubbles form and why are they so mesmerizing?

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    Bubbles Freezing
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SUMMARY

Freezing bubbles form uniquely by freezing from the top and bottom towards the center, rather than freezing uniformly. The discussion highlights the use of glycerin in bubble mixtures, which serves as an anti-freeze agent, enhancing the bubble's resilience in cold temperatures. Participants express curiosity about the specific bubble mix used and the fragility of the bubbles. Additionally, there is mention of ongoing scientific research focused on bubbles in freezing conditions, indicating a growing interest in this phenomenon.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of bubble chemistry, particularly the role of glycerin.
  • Knowledge of freezing point depression and its applications.
  • Familiarity with the physical properties of gases and liquids.
  • Basic principles of thermodynamics related to phase changes.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the chemical properties of glycerin and its effects on bubble stability.
  • Explore the physics behind freezing point depression in liquids.
  • Investigate ongoing scientific studies related to bubbles in cold environments.
  • Learn about the methods used in bubble photography and visualization techniques.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for chemists, physicists, educators, and hobbyists interested in the science of bubbles and their behavior in cold temperatures.

davenn
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this is pretty cool ( pun intended)


Dave
 
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interesting how it freezes from the top and the bottom to meet in the middle rather than just freezing all over
 
I was hoping someone would pick it up at the end. I wonder how delicate it is. Also wonder exactly what bubble mix they used. A lot of people use glycerin in their bubble recipe, which has an application as an anti-freeze.
 
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zoobyshoe said:
I was hoping someone would pick it up at the end. I wonder how delicate it is. Also wonder exactly what bubble mix they used. A lot of people use glycerin in their bubble recipe, which has an application as an anti-freeze.

I think regular bubbles work just fine. I cannot remember the location, but I do remember reading very recently about a group of scientists actually doing long-term 'research' on bubbles in freezing temperatures! That would be a fun job!

Some more variety on the topic:


 
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