Understanding the Young-Laplace Equation: A Derivation and Explanation

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In summary, the Young-Laplace equation states that the change in pressure is equal to the proportionality constant multiplied by the sum of the inverse of the two radii of curvature of a fluid surface. The derivation involves finding the change in surface energy and work done, which are equal. By correctly parameterizing the surface, the equation can be simplified to 1/dz = 1/R1 + 1/R2.
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Hi PF!

Here I'm trying to derive the Young-Laplace equation, which states $$\Delta P = \gamma \left(\frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2} \right)$$ where ##\Delta P## is change in pressure, ##\gamma## is a proportionality constant, and ##R## is a radius of curvature, both of which are orthogonal to the other and work so as to parameterize a fluid surface. The derivation follows:

Given a surface of fluid we know (how?) that the change in surface energy ##d E_s## equals the change of work done ##dW##. Notice ##dW = \Delta P dV = \Delta P x y dz## (cartesian coordinates). Now ##d E_s = \gamma dA##. Then ##A = xy## and ##A' = (x+dx)(y+dy) = xy +ydx + x dy## ignoring higher order infinitesimals. Then ##dA = ydx + x dy##. Suppose the surface ##dA## is parameterized by two radii of curvature ##R_1## and ##R_2##. Then, by similar triangles, we have $$\frac{R_1+dz}{R_1} = \frac{x+dx}{x} \implies \\ dx = \frac{x dz}{R_1}.$$ Substitute this into the expression for ##dA## to arrive at $$dA = \frac{yxdz}{R_1} + x dy.$$ Identical logic applied to ##dy## implies the final relation for area $$dA = xy dz \left( \frac{1}{R_1}+\frac{1}{R_2} \right) \implies \\ d E_s = xy dz \gamma \left( \frac{1}{R_1}+\frac{1}{R_2} \right).$$ Since ##dW = d E_s## we then have $$\Delta P = \gamma \left( \frac{1}{R_1}+\frac{1}{R_2} \right)$$ where the ##xy dz## term cancels.

My question is, is the following relation correct: ##d E_s = \gamma d A## and ##d W = \Delta P dV = \Delta P dA dz## which implies ##\gamma = \Delta P dz##, which, when compared with the above result, yields ##1/dz = 1/R_1 + 1/R_2##. Is this still correct?
 
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Related to Understanding the Young-Laplace Equation: A Derivation and Explanation

1. What is the Young-Laplace equation?

The Young-Laplace equation is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between surface tension, pressure, and curvature in a liquid interface. It is used to study the behavior of liquids at the interface with other materials, such as air or solids.

2. How is the Young-Laplace equation derived?

The Young-Laplace equation is derived from the principles of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. It can be derived using the Laplace-Young equation, which relates the pressure difference between two points on a curved liquid interface to the surface tension and the curvature at those points.

3. What is the significance of the Young-Laplace equation?

The Young-Laplace equation is significant because it helps us understand the behavior of liquids at interfaces and their interactions with other materials. It is used in various fields of science, such as physics, chemistry, and engineering, to study phenomena like capillary action, droplet formation, and wetting behavior.

4. What are the assumptions made in the derivation of the Young-Laplace equation?

The derivation of the Young-Laplace equation assumes that the liquid interface is in thermodynamic equilibrium, the interface is a smooth curve, and the pressure and surface tension are uniform across the interface. It also assumes that the liquid is incompressible and has a constant density.

5. Is the Young-Laplace equation applicable to all liquids?

The Young-Laplace equation is applicable to all liquids, as long as the assumptions made in its derivation hold true. However, it is mainly used for liquids with low viscosity and low surface tension, such as water and oils. For highly viscous or non-Newtonian liquids, the equation may need to be modified to account for these properties.

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