Best of Web 2018 | Casey Cooter

Cornstarch mixed with tonic water forms a fluorescent oobleck, and forms shapes when excited on a loudspeaker by Rachel Grosskruege for Get Wet 2015

 

This image by Rachel Grosskruege is an excellent intersection of aesthetics and science. The image was taken by using a non-newtonian fluid known as oobleck, which was poured onto a large speaker. Oobleck is a stress-thickening fluid which experiences a dynamic change in viscosity based on forces and pressures applied to the fluid. In particular, the phenomenon that creates dynamic viscosity is known as “sideways shearing force.” As non-newtonian fludis are not common in our day to day life, this was an excellent example of a scientific specimen. While the use of color was reserved, vibrant colors do not distract from the intricate physics that take place.

 

Original Post: https://www.flowvis.org/2015/01/01/cornstarch-mixed-with-tonic-water-forms-a-fluorescent-oobleck-and-forms-shapes-when-excited-on-a-loudspeaker/