Why bubbles are more than just soap and air in the everyday world

The fascinating science of bubbles, from soap to champagne | Li Wei Tan · 14:18 · Video: TED · Watch at the source

In short: Scientist Li Wei Tan explores the physics of bubbles, revealing how these geometric marvels influence everything from medicine to the design of efficient ships. This talk demonstrates the hidden mathematical complexity behind common bubbles and how nature inspires modern engineering.

Bubbles are driven by a relentless pursuit of geometric perfection. Beyond their simple appearance, they serve as a source of inspiration for practical applications in diverse fields. In medicine, they play a functional role, while in the shipping industry, designers are studying the bubbles created by swimming penguins to build more efficient vessels.

Li Wei Tan uses live demonstrations to illustrate the science behind these structures. By examining how bubbles form and behave, we can uncover mathematical principles that apply to both natural phenomena and human-made technology.

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