(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2015-08-18)
Berger, Eric M.
The goal of this study is to explore the mechanism by which unstable toroidal droplets collapse inwardly. As such, particle image velocimetry methods will be employed in obtaining an experimental picture of the velocity field inside of unstable toroidal droplets as they collapse. The inward collapse exhibited by unstable toroidal droplets is unique to the geometry of the torus and is therefore physically interesting. There is currently not an available experimental picture of this collapse, so this study will attempt to fill that void. Ultimately the results of this study will be compared against the currently accessible theoretical pictures of collapsing toroidal droplets, leading to further refinements in the field.