Physics Photo

Splashing Water Droplets

Under the influence of gravity, water droplets accelerate downward. Upon contact with the water surface, the water molecules in the droplet are gradually attracted to the molecules on the surface due to surface tension. This causes the droplet to flatten on the water surface, resembling a bowl with edges. The droplet then begins to spread outward from its flattened base, with water molecules forming ripple structures through mutual attraction. Meanwhile, surface tension pulls the edges of the droplet inward, forcing the molecules toward the center. When these two forces reach equilibrium, the shape of the droplet stabilizes, forming a beautiful circular crown.