Soda bubble formation rate on plastic straw and glass cup

In summary, plastic straws, particularly those made of PET, have a specific property that allows them to absorb bubbles. This is why bubbles form on the straw when left inside a glass of soda, and why PET bottles are commonly used to store carbonated drinks. The reason for this property is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the adsorption of molecules on the surface of the straw. Further research can be done on this topic by consulting Adamson's book on surface phenomena.
  • #1
RubinLicht
132
8
I observed that if you pour soda into a glass cup and leave the straw inside, bubbles seem to form on the plastic cup at a much much quicker rate. Why is this? Why do bubbles form on the straw at all?

Not sure if this should be in general physics or chemistry
 
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  • #2
Something i found while doing research, they state that PET has a specific property to absorb bubbles, but why?

Plastic straws have a specific property to adsorb bubbles. This property is more significant in PET (poly ethylene terephthalate) and hence these bottles serve as good containers to store aerated drinks to retain flavor and fizz. Some of us can try and see whether straws made of glass can adsorb bubbles just like plastic straws.
 
  • #3

1. What causes bubbles to form in soda when using a plastic straw and glass cup?

The bubbles in soda are formed due to the release of carbon dioxide gas from the liquid. This gas is added during the carbonation process and is released when the drink is opened or poured into a glass. When using a plastic straw and glass cup, the carbon dioxide gas adheres to the surface of the straw and forms bubbles as it rises to the surface of the liquid.

2. Why do bubbles form faster in soda when using a plastic straw and glass cup compared to other materials?

Plastic is a material that is more prone to creating friction compared to other materials such as metal or paper. This friction causes the carbon dioxide gas to release at a faster rate, resulting in more bubbles forming in the soda. Additionally, the smooth surface of a glass cup also contributes to the faster formation of bubbles as there is less resistance for the gas to adhere to.

3. Does the size of the straw and cup affect the bubble formation rate in soda?

Yes, the size of the straw and cup can impact the bubble formation rate in soda. A smaller straw or cup will result in a smaller surface area for the carbon dioxide gas to adhere to, leading to slower bubble formation. On the other hand, a larger straw or cup will provide more surface area, allowing for faster bubble formation.

4. How does temperature affect the rate of bubbles forming in soda with a plastic straw and glass cup?

Temperature plays a significant role in the rate of bubble formation in soda. When the drink is warmer, the carbon dioxide gas is more easily released from the liquid, resulting in faster bubble formation. On the other hand, colder temperatures can slow down the release of the gas, leading to slower bubble formation.

5. Can the shape of the straw or cup affect the bubble formation rate in soda?

Yes, the shape of the straw or cup can impact the bubble formation rate in soda. A straw with a larger diameter will allow for more carbon dioxide gas to be released, resulting in faster bubble formation. Similarly, a cup with a wider opening will also provide more surface area for the gas to adhere to, leading to faster bubble formation.

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