Spreading on Nanoscopic Scales

During spreading, the droplets assume the shape of Aztec pyramids, like the droplet shown in Fig. 1.19. This has been observed using spatially-resolved ellipsometry. 

The storm has passed. The sky is blue and the sun dazzles us once more. The raindrops hanging on the wysteria shine like diamonds. Let us teach our children to look at these droplets. 

Appendix Static and Dynamical Characteristics of Alkanes and Silicone Oils 

Molecular weight Viscosity Density Surface tension Laplace length Characteristic speed Refractive index 

2 Leger, L., Joanny, J.F. (1992) Liquid Spreading. Rep. Prog. Phys. 431 

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