What is the concept of Physics of Cymatics (of a liquid)

In summary, cymatics is a way to see the patterns formed on a liquid when the frequency or amplitude are changed. There is a formula which establishes the patterns form, but it is complicated.
  • #1
Rosella Lin
14
1
Hi,

Could someone please help me about what is the physics concept behind Cymatics. Is there a formula which establishes the patterns form on a liquid when the frequency or amplitude are changed?

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
Rosella Lin said:
Hi,

Could someone please help me about what is the physics concept behind Cymatics. Is there a formula which establishes the patterns form on a liquid when the frequency or amplitude are changed?

Thanks.
Are you familiar with the basics of waves and resonances? The wikipedia article is a good starting point:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cymatics

:smile:
 
  • #3
Yes I have studied waves and resonances but I don't understand what is going on with the patterns of the cymatics
 
  • #4
Rosella Lin said:
Yes I have studied waves and resonances but I don't understand what is going on with the patterns of the cymatics
It's just a way to make the modes of resonance visible. Like when you put sand on a vibrating metal plate...
 
  • #5
ok i see. But is there no formula or pattern it follows?
 
  • #6
Rosella Lin said:
ok i see. But is there no formula or pattern it follows?
For the simpler patterns, you can generally write the equations that show what the pattern will be, given the shape of the surface, how it is suspended/held, and the driven locations and frequencies. For the more complex patterns, you could probably simulate them, but if there are good mathematical solutions, they are likely to be complicated (like, beyond what I can try to help you with).

Nice web page with tutorials and cool videos/pictures -- http://doorofperception.com/2013/11/cymatics/

:smile:

http://www.dustino.co/nnor/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/cymaticsgold.jpg
cymaticsgold.jpg
 
  • #7
Mathematically, these problems are solved using Boundary Value methods:

https://math.dartmouth.edu/archive/m23f09/public_html/drum.pdf

and here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boundary_value_problem

Basically you define how the edges of the boundary, use the 2D wave equation and through the magic of partial differential equations come up with a family of functions that solve it.

As an example, a drum head has a non-moving circular boundary and so it limits the kinds of waves known as standing waves that can occur:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibrations_of_a_circular_membrane

From there you can determine nodal lines ie where the head doesn't move and that's where the sand on the drum surface will tend to sit.
 
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  • #8
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Related to What is the concept of Physics of Cymatics (of a liquid)

1. What is the concept of Cymatics?

Cymatics is the study of how sound waves can create geometric patterns and movements in matter, such as liquids, solids, and gases. It explores the relationship between sound and physical matter.

2. How does Cymatics work?

Cymatics works by using a device, such as a speaker or vibrating plate, to produce sound waves at specific frequencies. These sound waves then create patterns and movements in the matter they are directed towards.

3. What is the significance of Cymatics in physics?

Cymatics is significant in physics because it demonstrates the effects of sound waves on physical matter. It also shows how vibrations can influence the behavior and structure of materials, which has applications in fields such as engineering and medicine.

4. Can Cymatics be applied in real-world scenarios?

Yes, Cymatics has been applied in various industries such as music, art, and science. In music, it has been used to create unique soundscapes and visual displays. In art, it has been used to create mesmerizing patterns and sculptures. In science, it has been used to study the effects of sound on different materials and to develop new technologies.

5. Are there any limitations to Cymatics?

One limitation of Cymatics is that it is primarily limited to the study of visible patterns and movements in matter. It cannot be used to study the effects of sound on materials at a microscopic level. Additionally, the results of Cymatics experiments can be influenced by external factors such as temperature and humidity, which can affect the behavior of the matter being studied.

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