Why Does Ink Move Rapidly on a Film When Refilling a Fountain Pen?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the rapid movements observed on a thin film of ink when refilling a fountain pen. Participants suggest that these movements may be attributed to thin film interference, akin to the patterns seen when oil floats on water. Additionally, the constant formation and breaking of hydrogen bonds in water are proposed as a contributing factor. The interplay of these phenomena creates the dynamic visual effects noted during the ink refill process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thin film interference
  • Basic knowledge of hydrogen bonding in water
  • Familiarity with fluid dynamics
  • Experience with fountain pen mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of thin film interference in liquids
  • Explore the role of hydrogen bonding in liquid behavior
  • Investigate fluid dynamics related to ink flow in fountain pens
  • Examine evaporation rates and their effects on liquid films
USEFUL FOR

Anyone interested in fluid dynamics, fountain pen enthusiasts, and individuals studying the physical properties of liquids will benefit from this discussion.

mahela007
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In spite of the widespread ball point pen, I still use a fountain pen for calculations.. One day, I ran out of ink while writing (duh..) and opened the cap of my ink bottle to refill my pen. Now, as I opened the cap, a thin film of ink was formed around the mouth of the bottle.. in other words, it was like a partially formed bubble.. Now, because this was ink, I was able to see, rapid, random looking movements on this film/membrane of ink...Imagine the colors you get when oil mixes / floats on water.. now imagine those colors were all blue and imagine them constantly moving, turning, twisting etc..
what do you think caused these weird movements? I've read that the H bonds of water are in a constant state of flux and that the bonds keep forming and breaking... could this be the cause?
 
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An interesting observation and I suspect it was thin film interfernce,similar to the oil on water pattern you described.The movement could be due to the water draining and evaporating.
 
thanks... I'll check that out.
 

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