The dramatic difference between wet and dry sphere splashes

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Thread starter Russ Edmonds
Start date Jun 14, 2021
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Difference Sphere

In summary, the difference in splash patterns between wet and dry spheres is mainly caused by the surface tension of the liquid. A dry sphere creates a more compact splash pattern due to the resistance of the liquid, while a wet sphere creates a larger and more dispersed pattern as the surface tension is reduced by the layer of liquid on its surface. The speed of the sphere also affects the splash pattern, with faster moving spheres creating a more dramatic and dispersed pattern. Other factors such as the viscosity of the liquid, shape, and size of the sphere can also play a role. Understanding these differences can have practical applications in various fields and everyday life, such as designing water-resistant materials and predicting fluid behavior.

Jun 14, 2021

Russ Edmonds

TL;DR Summary: This phenomenon was first observed by A. M. Worthington in 1897.

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Jun 16, 2021

Russ Edmonds

As a follow up, here is a link to a great little paper on the current theory about the sphere splashes:
https://www.nature.com/articles/nphys545.pdf

1. What causes the dramatic difference between wet and dry sphere splashes?

The main factor that causes the dramatic difference between wet and dry sphere splashes is the presence of surface tension. When a sphere impacts a liquid surface, the surface tension of the liquid causes it to form a thin film around the sphere. This film then breaks and creates a splash. In the case of a dry splash, the surface tension is strong enough to hold the sphere together and create a single splash. However, in a wet splash, the surface tension is not strong enough to hold the sphere together, resulting in multiple smaller splashes.

2. How does the size of the sphere affect the wet and dry splash patterns?

The size of the sphere plays a significant role in the wet and dry splash patterns. As the size of the sphere increases, the surface tension of the liquid becomes less effective in holding it together. This results in larger and more complex wet splash patterns. On the other hand, smaller spheres have a higher surface tension-to-mass ratio, making it easier for the surface tension to hold them together and create a single dry splash.

3. Are there any other factors that contribute to the difference between wet and dry sphere splashes?

Yes, besides surface tension, other factors such as the speed and angle of impact, the viscosity of the liquid, and the shape and texture of the sphere can also affect the wet and dry splash patterns. For example, a higher impact speed can lead to more complex wet splashes, while a lower viscosity liquid can result in smaller and more uniform dry splashes.

4. Do these differences in splash patterns have any practical applications?

Yes, understanding the differences between wet and dry sphere splashes can have practical applications in various fields such as fluid dynamics, materials science, and even forensic science. For example, studying the splash patterns of blood droplets can help forensic investigators determine the angle and speed of impact, providing crucial evidence in crime scene investigations.

5. Are there any ongoing research or studies on wet and dry sphere splashes?

Yes, there are ongoing research and studies on wet and dry sphere splashes, particularly in the field of fluid dynamics. Scientists are constantly exploring new techniques and technologies to better understand the underlying physics behind these splash patterns. This research can also have practical applications in industries such as food and beverage, where controlling splash patterns can improve product quality and safety.