Observation of depression solitary surface waves on a thin fluid layer.
We report the observation of depression solitary surface waves on a layer of mercury when its depth is thin enough compared to the capillary length. These waves, as well as the well known elevation solitary waves, are studied with a new measurement technique using inductive sensors. The shape of the solitary waves, their amplitude-dependent velocity, and their damping rates by viscosity are found in good agreement with theoretical predictions.
Falcon
Eric
E
Laboratoire de Physique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR 5672, 46 allée d'Italie, 69 007 Lyon, France.
Laroche
Claude
C
Fauve
Stéphan
S