Two physics students at the University of Exeter may have shattered the world record for the longest levitated soap bubble, demonstrating a remarkable application of acoustic levitation.
Boden Duffy and Joe Nightingale, both third-year students, achieved an impressive 84-minute suspension of a delicate soap bubble within a soundproof laboratory.
The Science Behind the Feat
The students’ achievement stemmed from their final-year project, which explored the oscillation modes of bubbles. Building on existing research into acoustic levitation with droplets, they adapted the technology to manipulate and sustain soap bubbles. To achieve this, they carefully formed a bubble from a soapy water droplet and then used an acoustic levitation device. This device employs sound waves to generate a force that counteracts gravity, effectively keeping the bubble aloft.
While much research has focused on droplets in acoustic levitation, the students sought to explore the lesser-studied behavior of bubbles under similar conditions. By doing so, they aimed to push the boundaries of what this technology could achieve.
Record Verification and Technological Implications
To ensure accuracy, the record attempt was meticulously conducted under controlled conditions, with witnesses present and video footage captured. As a result, their documentation has been submitted to Guinness World Records for official verification. Ultimately, the students themselves ended the experiment by popping the bubble after its extended duration.
Beyond breaking a record, this achievement highlights the broader potential of acoustic levitation technology. For instance, the ability to manipulate objects without physical contact has diverse applications, including microchip manufacturing and scientific research, where sterile environments and delicate procedures are essential. By demonstrating this capability, the students have shown that acoustic levitation is capable of more than previously explored applications, opening doors for future advancements.
