Physicists calculate exactly how long that last drop takes
Build Your Website in Minutes with One-Click Import – No Coding Hassle!
How much of your life is spent waiting for the last drops of syrup, olive oil, or even bodywash to drip from a container? This routine test of patience is owed entirely to complex fluid dynamics. But thanks to physicists at Brown University, people no longer have to guess how long it may take to finally empty that bottle of ketchup—provided you are well-versed in the right math.
According to Jay Tang and Thomas Dutta, co-authors of a study recently published in Physics of Fluids, you specifically need to know about Navier-Stokes equations. These formulas use conservation of mass principles to describe how fluids move based on Newton’s second law of motion (force equals mass times acceleration).Tang typically focuses on the biophysics of bacteria, and how the organisms function and grow on wet surfaces. These relationships are much easier to study with everyday sources like kitchen liquids, however. Dutta recalled his grandmother always trying to force out the last drips from cartons and containers, while Tang had his own problems when cleaning his cast iron wok pan.
“In both cases, the relevant physics involves the flow of thin layers of fluid on a surface. This physics is everywhere in our regular research as well, so we decided that this would be a nice training exercise,” said Dutta.
The researchers focused specifically on what is known as the viscous regime in Navier-Stokes equations. These explain a liquid’s movement when it’s dictated by internal friction. Dutta used the equations to predict how long it takes fluids with different viscosities to progress along a downward angle. They then poured liquids like water, whole milk, clarified butter, and olive oil over a plate tilted at a 45 degree angle, weighing the liquids as they ran off the plate until 90 percent had left the surface.
The team’s theoretical calculations were largely supported by the results, and showed it’s all about the viscosity. Water reached the 90 percent mark in only a few seconds. Meanwhile, cold maple syrup could take hours to do the same. The physicists still learned a few new lessons in the process, however.
“I was surprised and actually a little disappointed. I usually wait only about one or two minutes, but it turns out that I need to be a lot more patient,” confessed Tang.
Templatespare: Create Your Dream Website with Easy Starter Sites!
A beautiful collection of Ready to Import Starter Sites with just one click. Get modern & creative websites in minutes!
Newspaper, Magazine, Blog, and eCommerce Ready
Forget About Starting From Scratch
Explore a world of creativity with 365+ ready-to-use website templates! From chic blogs to dynamic news platforms, engaging magazines, and professional agency websites – find your perfect online space!
One Click Import: No Coding Hassle! Three Simple Steps
Embark on your website journey with simplicity and style. Follow these 3 easy steps to create your online masterpiece effortlessly
- Choose a Site
Explore a rich selection of over 350 pre-built websites. With a single click, import the site that resonates with your vision. - Customize & Personalize
Unleash your creativity! Customize your chosen site with complete design freedom. Tailor every element to build and personalize your website exactly the way you envision it. - Publish & Go Live!
With the editing and customization complete, it’s time to go live! In just minutes, your website will be ready to share with the world.
Join the AF themes family, where excellence meets ease. Explore the endless possibilities and embark on your web journey with us today!
Together, we’re shaping the future of the web.
