Abstract
We derive the leading-order equations that govern the dynamics of the flow in a falling, free-standing soap film. Starting with the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations, we carry out an asymptotic analysis using parameters that correspond to a common experimental setup. We account for the effects of inertia, surface elasticity, pressure, viscous stresses, gravity, and air drag. We find that the dynamics of the flow is dominated by the effects of inertia, surface elasticity, gravity, and air drag. We solve the leading-order equations to compute the steady-state profiles of velocity, thickness, and pressure in an experiment in which the film is in the Marangoni elasticity regime. The computational results, which include a Marangoni shock, are in good accord with the experimental measurements.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
