Geyser Formation in Oxygen when Subjected to fast Acceleration Changes
Abstract
Large bubbles of oxygen are magnetically levitated inside a liquid column of oxygen. Then the magnetic field is rapidly quenched resulting in the formation of a geyser. This configuration reproduces the conditions of rocket re-ignition in orbit. Two bubbles with fill factors 6 % and 15 % were used. Two-dimensional numerical simulations based on VOF-PLIC method are also carried out. Comparison of the experimental, numerical and theoretical results shows good agreement. The method can thus be used for further more focused studies with oxygen for various gravity quenches, fill ratios and pressure values.