Soap film colours and patterns
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Soap film colours and patterns
Colours in a soap film. The colours are produced by the interference of light waves reflected from the upper and lower surfaces of the film. As the thickness of the film is of a similar magnitude to the wavelength of visible light (dozens to hundreds of nanometres), the interference patterns appear as bands of colour, related to the thickness of the film. Thicker walls cause interference at longer (redder) wavelengths, so appear bluer and greener. As the film thins through evaporation or other processes, the reflected light cancels out yellow then green then blue light, appearing blue, magenta and golden yellow, before becoming too thin to support itself, and popping
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9246619
© DAVID PARKER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Colors Colour Colours Education Film Films Fluid Fluids Gravity Interference Interfering Iridescence Iridescent Light Liquid Motion Optics Pattern Patterns Psychedelic Reflection Soap Surfactant Swirling Thin Physical
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the mesmerizing world of soap film colours and patterns. The image showcases a thin layer of soap film, displaying an array of vibrant colors that result from the interference of light waves reflecting off its upper and lower surfaces. The film's thickness, which is similar to the wavelength of visible light, gives rise to these stunning bands of color. As we observe this liquid marvel, we can witness how thicker walls create interference at longer wavelengths, resulting in shades leaning towards blue and green. Conversely, as the film gradually thins through evaporation or other processes, it undergoes a breathtaking transformation. Reflecting light cancels out yellow first, followed by green and then blue hues until only shades of blue, magenta, and golden yellow remain. The ever-changing nature of this delicate soap film becomes evident as it reaches a point where it can no longer sustain itself due to its diminishing thickness. At this moment, like magic in motion captured by gravity's handiwork, the fragile film pops into nothingness. This photograph not only serves as a visual delight but also offers an educational insight into the physics behind iridescence and interference phenomena within fluids. It invites us to appreciate the beauty found in scientific principles while showcasing swirling patterns that seem almost psychedelic in their complexity. (Photo credit: Science Photo Library)
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