Freezing singularities in water drops

Details Freezing singularities in water drops Freezing singularities in water drops

2011-10-14

arxiv.org/abs/1110.3698v1

Physics

Fluid Dynamics

Gallery of Fluid Motion 2012

Scientific paper

In this fluid dynamics video we show how a drop of water freezes into a singular shape when deposited on a cold surface. The process of solidification can be observed very clearly due to the change in refraction when water turns into ice. The drop remains approximately spherical during most of the process, with a freezing front moving upwards and smoothly following the interface. However, at the final stage of freezing, when the last cap of liquid turns into ice, a singular tip develops spontaneously. Interestingly, the sharp tip of the ice drop acts as a preferential site for deposition of water vapour, and a beautiful "tree" of ice crystals develops right at the tip. The tip singularity attracts the vapour in analogy to a sharp lightning rod attracting lightning.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Freezing singularities in water drops does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Freezing singularities in water drops, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Freezing singularities in water drops will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-523758