Underdamped modes in a hydrodynamically coupled microparticle system

Yao, A.M., Keen, S.A.J., Burnham, D.R., Leach, J., Di Leonardo, R., McGloin, D. and Padgett, M.J. (2009) Underdamped modes in a hydrodynamically coupled microparticle system. New Journal of Physics, 11, 053007. (doi: 10.1088/1367-2630/11/5/053007)

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Abstract

When micron-sized particles are trapped in a linear periodic array, for example, by using optical tweezers, they interact only through the hydrodynamic forces between them. This couples the motion of the spheres and it has been predicted that an extended system might behave as an elastic medium that could support underdamped propagating waves. In practice, these underdamped modes can be observed only with massive particles in very stiff traps and very low viscosity fluids. We have been able to realize these conditions by trapping water droplets in air. Even with a system of just two particles we were able to observe the coupled oscillatory motion predicted: underdamping of the symmetric (collective) mode and overdamping of the asymmetric (relative) mode.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Padgett, Professor Miles
Authors: Yao, A.M., Keen, S.A.J., Burnham, D.R., Leach, J., Di Leonardo, R., McGloin, D., and Padgett, M.J.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
Journal Name:New Journal of Physics
Journal Abbr.:New J. Phys.
Publisher:Institute of Physics Publishing Ltd.
ISSN (Online):1367-2630
Published Online:01 May 2009
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2009 Institute of Physics Publishing Ltd.
First Published:First published in New Journal of Physics 11 (2009): 053007
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher

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