Drop of water in slow motion - explanation needed

The explanation given by the mathematician in the video may be difficult to understand. Essentially, the presence of air between two surfaces can create a thin layer that makes it harder to separate them. This is why we see objects like a coffee cup "bounce" when dropped from a short distance onto a surface. Additionally, the strong surface tension of liquids helps to maintain the spherical shape of droplets and the process releases energy stored in the surface tension. In summary, the presence of air and surface tension play important roles in the phenomenon shown in the video.
  • #1
Chen
977
1
Please see here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5bsQ_YDYCI&feature=player_embedded#

First - wow.

Second - I'm not sure I understand the mathematician's explanation. Why would there be a thin layer of air to begin with? Is this correct? Is there a different explanation for this phenomenon?

Thanks,
Chen
 
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  • #2
Beautiful stuff.

Air is all around us so it will be between those surfaces. Air close to mater behaves differently o so slightly and it sticks somewhat to the surface, making it's removal harder. The process is fast in the clip shot with the highspeedcam. An example is a empty coffee cup that floats a bit when dropped from a small distance on a table.

Plus that liquids have strong surface tension which makes for the very fast connection of the two surfaces once they connect, and keeps the spherical shape of the droplet. The process is energeticly positive it gives out energy stored in the surface tension.
 
  • #3
Chen said:
First - wow.

Agreed.
 

FAQ: Drop of water in slow motion - explanation needed

What is slow motion and how does it work?

Slow motion is a technique used in photography and videography to capture motion at a slower rate than it occurs in real life. It works by recording a series of images or frames at a high speed and then playing them back at a slower speed, creating the illusion of slowed down motion.

Why is a drop of water used to demonstrate slow motion?

A drop of water is often used to demonstrate slow motion because it has a very distinct and visually appealing shape when falling. It also allows for a clear demonstration of the effects of gravity and air resistance on an object in motion.

How is the drop of water filmed in slow motion?

The drop of water is filmed using a high-speed camera that is capable of capturing a large number of frames per second. This allows for a smooth and detailed slow motion effect. Special lighting and backgrounds may also be used to enhance the visual effect.

What factors can affect the appearance of the drop of water in slow motion?

Some factors that can affect the appearance of the drop of water in slow motion include the speed and angle at which it falls, the shape and size of the droplet, and the environment in which it is falling (e.g. air resistance, gravity, etc.). The type of liquid used can also affect the appearance of the drop.

What can we learn from studying a drop of water in slow motion?

Studying a drop of water in slow motion can provide insights into the physics of motion and the behavior of fluids. It can also help us understand the effects of gravity and air resistance on objects in motion. Additionally, slow motion can reveal details that are not visible to the naked eye, allowing for a deeper understanding of natural phenomena.

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