Join 3M Researcher Vasav Shani as he introduces you to the science of surface tension.

Not only is it only important  for many engineering and earth science processes, it also makes blowing bubbles possible.

Much of what we now know about surface tension was discovered by the scientist, Agnes Pockels, who was an early pioneer of “surface science.” She did experiments in the sink of her own kitchen and made many important observations that influenced how we study liquids. Surface tension is not only important for many engineering processes – it is also important to the health of the planet, as it allows for the formation of bubbles, which help distribute organic material throughout the layers of the ocean.

Today we’re going to do an experiment that will help us better understand how surface tension can be altered with soap and water.