Laplace formula
The Laplace formula is a result in fluid mechanics that gives the surface pressure between two continuous media. The surface of separation is really a transitional layer, but it is so thin that in classical mechanics it can be considered a dividing surface between the two media.
Definition
Consider two continuous media (top and bottom) whose surface of separation undergoes a small displacement. If and are the principal radii of curvature of the surface in some sample region, then the difference of pressures is
where is the surface tension coefficient.
See also
References
- Landau, L.D. and Lifschitz, E.M. Fluid Mechanics. Oxford : Butterworth-Heinemann, 1987.
- "Film notes for surface tension in fluid mechanics" (PDF). Trefethen, Encyclopedia Britannica. 1969. Retrieved 2014-03-25.
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