Dr. Helen Czerski, an oceanographer and physicist, and Dr. Justin Burton, a physicist focusing on giant bubbles and fluid mechanics, dive into the whimsical world of bubbles. They explore how to make colossal bubbles, including the feasibility of encasing the Earth. Fun anecdotes reveal NASA's role in bubble record-breaking and the chemistry behind stable bubbles. The duo also investigates bubbles in zero gravity as a potential climate solution, showcasing their vital role in oxygen absorption and carbon dynamics in oceans.
Creating large bubbles requires advanced materials like surfactants and guar gum to enhance their stability and stretch.
Bubbles in space behave uniquely due to zero gravity, leading to innovative scientific experiments aboard the International Space Station.
Deep dives
Understanding Bubble Construction
Creating large bubbles requires specific materials and techniques beyond just soap and water. A combination of surfactant molecules is essential to stabilize the bubble's thin liquid film, preventing it from popping too quickly. Additionally, incorporating guar gum creates long-chain polymers that enhance the bubble's stretch and stability. This innovative approach allows for the construction of bubbles that are strong enough to contain both a child and a dog inside, showcasing the potential of manipulating bubble dynamics.
The Record-Breaking Bubble
The current record for the largest outdoor free-floating soap bubble stands at an impressive 3,399 cubic feet, held by bubble enthusiast Gary Perlman. He achieved this feat using specially designed giant fishing poles, illustrating the significant physical challenges one faces when crafting massive bubbles. The intricate blend of technique, environmental conditions, and sheer determination came together to create this extraordinary bubble. Perlman's accomplishment reflects not only personal dedication but also the fascinating intersection of art and science in bubble-making.
Bubbles in Zero Gravity
Bubbles behave differently in zero gravity compared to on Earth, as they do not evaporate or thin out quickly in the absence of gravitational pull. Experiments conducted aboard the International Space Station revealed that astronauts can create thicker, colored bubbles without the typical constraints of Earth's atmosphere. This unique environment highlights how bubbles’ physical properties can change based on gravity, making them a subject of interest for scientists studying fluid dynamics. Such experiments also reveal the playful side of science, as astronauts engage in simple yet profound explorations of bubbles in space.
Innovative Solutions with Space Bubbles
Researchers at MIT are exploring the concept of using a massive array of bubbles in space as an unconventional method to mitigate climate change. By reflecting a small percentage of sunlight, these bubble structures could theoretically reduce global temperatures. This bubble-based solution highlights the creative approaches scientists are considering to address urgent environmental challenges. However, the complexities and logistical challenges involved, such as transporting materials and maintaining the bubbles, raise critical questions about feasibility and potential unintended consequences.
While chatting at the back of class, best mates Abi and Sofia got curious about bubbles. How do you make really giant ones? Could you even get one around the entire planet?
Hannah and Dara set out to investigate. They hear from a renowned 'bubbleologist', and learn how NASA helped him blow his way to a world record. They coax a physicist to reveal the secrets of his peer-reviewed bubble-juice formula, and investigate how bubbles work in space and in the ocean.
Our curious duo also discover an audacious project aiming to build a Brazil-sized raft of bubbles... in space!
Contributors:
Dr Helen Czerski, UCL
Dr Justin Burton, Emory University
Dr Awesome, Bubbleologist
Professor Carlo Ratti, MIT
Producer: Ilan Goodman
Executive Producer: Alexandra Feachem
A BBC Studios Audio Production
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