The Tibetan singing bowl: acoustics and fluid dynamics

TL;DR

This paper investigates the acoustics and fluid dynamics of Tibetan singing bowls, analyzing their vibrational modes, surface waves, and phenomena like Faraday waves and droplet levitation through experimental methods.

Contribution

It provides a detailed experimental analysis of the acoustic and fluid dynamic behaviors of Tibetan singing bowls, linking their vibrations to surface wave phenomena and droplet interactions.

Findings

Identification of vibrational modes and surface wave behaviors.

Criteria for the onset of Faraday waves and droplet generation.

Observation of droplet levitation and bouncing on vibrating surfaces.

Abstract

We present the results of an experimental investigation of the acoustics and fluid dynamics of Tibetan singing bowls. Their acoustic behavior is rationalized in terms of the related dynamics of standing bells and wine glasses. Striking or rubbing a fluid-filled bowl excites wall vibrations, and concomitant waves at the fluid surface. Acoustic excitation of the bowl's natural vibrational modes allows for a controlled study in which the evolution of the surface waves with increasing forcing amplitude is detailed. Particular attention is given to rationalizing the observed criteria for the onset of edge-induced Faraday waves and droplet generation via surface fracture. Our study indicates that drops may be levitated on the fluid surface, induced to bounce on or skip across the vibrating fluid surface.