Interference, Ruptured

Description

2018 Honorable Mention, Northwestern Scientific Image Contest. Soap is known for creating bubbles of air encased by a thin film of the soap and water. Bubbles are maintained by surface tension, which keeps the water and soap molecules in place; things like dry air or another object can break surface tension and cause the bubble to rupture. This image shows a thin soap film in mid-rupture. The wiggled lines on the intact side of the bubble reflect differences in the thickness of the film.

Abstract

This image originally appeared as part of Northwestern's Scientific Images Contest. The contest and subsequent exhibitions are organized by Science in Society, the university's research center for science education and public engagement. Further information and opportunities to participate are available on their website.

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