Laplace formula
The Laplace formula is a result in fluid mechanics that gives the surface pressure between two continuous media. The surface of separation is really a transitional layer, but it is so thin that in classical mechanics it can be considered a dividing surface between the two media.
Definition
Consider two continuous media (top and bottom) whose surface of separation undergoes a small displacement. If \(r_t\) and \(r_b\) are the principal radii of curvature of the surface in some sample region, then the difference of pressures is
\[\Delta P = \alpha\left(\frac{1}{r_t}+\frac{1}{r_b}\right)\]
where \(\alpha\) is the surface pressure.
See also
References
- Landau, L.D. and Lifschitz, E.M. Fluid Mechanics. Oxford : Butterworth-Heinemann, 1987.
| 45px | This fluid dynamics-related article is a stub. You can help Oilfield Wiki by expanding it. |
