On physical aspects of splashing

Abstract

Physical parameters and processes that may be important for modeling splashing will be addressed. This includes the role of viscosity and surface tension as well as that of the ambient gas. The complexity of splashing can be further enhanced by the action of additional physical processes such as heat transfer and phase change phenomena. In this presentation, in particular limiting conditions of splashing will be considered as these may provide some clues to the mechanism of splashing inception. Both, splash thresholds for drops impinging on solid and liquid surfaces will be presented and reviewed. The discussion aims at emphasizing aspects that have so far received less attention and at identifying outstanding questions.