Surface tension of a torus raindrop

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of surface tension forces in raindrops, specifically comparing spherical and toroidal shapes. The original poster questions why the force exerted by surface tension has two components for a toroidal raindrop, while it has only one for a spherical raindrop.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between the shape of the raindrop and the corresponding surface tension calculations. The original poster attempts to understand the difference in components of the force for different geometries. Others question the nature of boundaries in relation to surface tension.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the definitions of boundaries in the context of surface tension. Some guidance has been offered regarding the interpretation of the toroidal shape's boundaries, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are examining the assumptions related to the geometry of raindrops and how these affect the calculations of forces due to surface tension. There is a focus on the definitions of boundaries in fluid dynamics.

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Homework Statement



When calculating the difference in pressure inside a spherical raindrop, the force exerted by the surface tension is calculated to be 2pi*R*gama, where R is the radius of the drop and gamma is dE/dS (dyne/cm).
When the shape of the raindrop is said to be that of a torus, the force exerted by the surface tension is calculated to be 2pi*R*gamma + 2pi(R+2r)*gamma (please see attachment).
My question is simply why does the force in the case of the torus have two components, whereas in the case of a sphere it has only one?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 

Attachments

  • Torus.JPG
    Torus.JPG
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In both cases, the expression is the length of the boundary (as seen in a 2D-projection) multiplied by gamma. A circle has one boundary, the torus has 2 (inner+outer).
 
But isn't the circle's circumference considered a boundary? Or shouldn't it be? Is it not a thin layer of fluid verging on air?
 
But isn't the circle's circumference considered a boundary?
Of course. That should be the origin of 2pi*R*gamma.
You get a layer of fluid/air in contact there.
 
Okay. Thank you.
 

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