Why Does a Bubble Move to the Middle in a Horizontal Pipe?

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In a horizontal pipe, a bubble moves to the middle due to the balance of forces acting on it, primarily surface tension and pressure differences. The bubble seeks the position where these forces are equal, which is typically at the center of the pipe. When a bubble moves horizontally, the forces involved differ from those when it rises vertically, where buoyancy plays a significant role. The design of a spirit level, which features a barrel-shaped tube, helps illustrate how bubbles stabilize in a level position. Understanding these principles clarifies the behavior of bubbles in various orientations.
vladim1
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Hi people.

Please explain me, why in a horisontal pipe (closed) a bubble go to middle, and not stay in any other position?

Also what is the difference of forces when this bubble moves from right/left to middle and when it rise from bottom to top.


I know bubble rise due to buoyancy, which is equal with pgV. But in horisontal case, this force seems to be less.

Thanks.
 
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Hello,
is this question so difficult?? At least, pleas, can someone explain me how spirit level works.
 
vladim1 said:
Hello,
is this question so difficult?? At least, pleas, can someone explain me how spirit level works.
The inside of the spirit level pipe is not a perfect cylinder, but rather a barell:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spirit_level
 

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