Equilibrium shapes of acoustically levitated liquid drops Free

The effects of acoustic radiation stresses on the equilibrium shape of liquid drops have been studied through photographic data obtained with acoustically levitated liquids. The kR parameter was varied between 0.15 and 0.6 by changing the drop radius R while keeping the acoustic wavelength fixed (λ = 2π/k). The variations of the geometrical aspect ratios of the spheroidal drops with the acoustic pressure level were recorded using an ultrasonic levitator operating in air at 20 kHz and room temperature. Results obtained for water, glycerin, silicone oil, and molten metals have been analyzed and compared with the available theoretical treatment [P. L. Marston, S. E. LaPorto‐Arione, and G. L. Pullen, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 69, 1499–1501 (1981)]. A good agreement was obtained in the range of small kR values where the theory was applicable [Work supported by NASA.]