![]() |
Science of condensation.
I just found this via a post on sci.physics:
Based on research into the physics of mixing, someone has found a critical temperature for size and mass "The researchers initially considered a system of same-size particles, and equated the kinetic energy of each particle, which is directly related to the ambient temperature in kinetic theory, to its equivalent potential energy. They found that a critical temperature exists below which a layer of particles 'condenses out' at the bottom of the vessel. This critical temperature corresponds to a particular ratio of mass and diameter. The condensed particles vibrate in a confined space but cannot swap places with their neighbours or re-enter the 'fluid' portion of the system. From a range of simulations, Hong's group constructed a phase diagram of different combinations of mass and diameter ratios. The diagram maps the onset of segregation and the flip from the 'Brazil nut problem' to the 'reverse Brazil nut problem' - and so predicts how certain combinations of particles will mix." http://physicsweb.org/articles/news/5/4/5 So now we can look forward to finding out just exactly when it is too cold to snow. |
All times are GMT. The time now is 08:01 PM. |
Powered by vBulletin® Copyright ©2000 - 2025, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Copyright ©2004-2006 WeatherBanter.co.uk