Bubbles appear when a thin film (like soap water) traps gas (such as air). The molecules in the film are drawn to each other and shrink to the smallest possible area. The smallest area that can wrap around a volume is a sphere, meaning the film will shrink to cover a sphere.

Why bubbles are round

Bubbles occur when a thin film (for example, of soapy water) traps some gas (for example, air). The molecules in the film are attracted to each other, which not only holds the film together, but also makes it shrink to the smallest possible area.The smallest area enclosing any given volume? A sphere. Therefore, the film will shrink to cover a sphere, and then can’t shrink any further because of the trapped air. Thus, bubbles end up as round.Asked by: Emily Wilson, BirminghamRead more:

Why do bubbles normally appear and round spheres? A physicist explains the science behind soapy water and trapped air.

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Bubbles occur when a thin film (for example, of soapy water) traps some gas (for example, air). The molecules in the film are attracted to each other, which not only holds the film together, but also makes it shrink to the smallest possible area.

The smallest area enclosing any given volume? A sphere. Therefore, the film will shrink to cover a sphere, and then can’t shrink any further because of the trapped air. Thus, bubbles end up as round.

Asked by: Emily Wilson, Birmingham

Why are bubbles round?

Why bubbles are round

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