Cavitation Sonophysics

Abstract

When a sound wave interacts with a bubble or a collection of bubbles present in a fluid, there is a conversion of acoustical to mechanical energy through a process known as acoustic cavitation. The resulting physical effects include cavitation microstreaming, collapse microjets, shock waves, elevated pressures and temperatures, and excess acoustic attenuation. It is possible to influence, and in some cases control, these processes through careful manipulation of the relevant physical parameters. The article provides a brief overview of the basics of cavitation nucleation and dynamics, followed by capsule descriptions of various physical effects that result from acoustic cavitation activity.