The Acoustic Bubble

Abstract

This volume deals with the interaction of acoustic fields with bubbles in liquids. The principles of cavitation (generation of bubbles in liquids by rapid changes as those introduced by ultrasound) are expounded. When cavity bubbles implode they produce shock waves in the liquid. Components can be damaged by cavitation if it is induced by turbulent flow. These phenomena have important implications, particularly in underwater acoustics (the fastest growing field in acoustics research). Later chapters concentrate on cavitation due to ultrasound. This interdisciplinary research should be of interest to those engaged in research from sonochemistry to the sensitization of explosives. The physical processes involved are explained both by analogy and formulation. In this way, the concepts should be accessible to those of lesser mathematical ability.