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Updated: Dec 14, 2025

An Analog Macroscopic Technique for Studying Molecular Hydrodynamic Processes in Dense Gases and Liquids
Published on: December 4, 2017
Classical hydrodynamics for analogue space-times: open channel flows and thin films
Germain Rousseaux1, Hamid Kellay2
1CNRS/Université de Poitiers/ISAE-ENSMA, Institut Pprime, Futuroscope, France.
Researchers explore building analogue spacetime in fluid dynamics using flow phase diagrams and experiments. New flowing soap film systems offer advanced capabilities for analogue gravity research.
Area of Science:
- Fluid dynamics
- Analogue gravity experiments
- Spacetime analogies
Background:
- Analogue spacetime construction in open channel flows is an active research area.
- Previous experiments have utilized flow phase diagrams and various flow regimes.
- Thin films, such as the circular jump, have shown potential for these studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review methods for building analogue spacetimes in open channel flows.
- To introduce a novel system for next-generation analogue gravity experiments.
- To discuss the role of flow phase diagrams and experimental regimes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of flow phase diagrams in open channel flows.
- Review of analogue experiments conducted in different flow regimes.
- Introduction and discussion of flowing soap films with capillary/elastic waves.
Main Results:
- Established methods for creating analogue spacetimes using fluid dynamics.
- Demonstrated the utility of circular jumps and other thin films.
- Presented flowing soap films as a promising new platform.
Conclusions:
- Open channel flows provide a viable platform for analogue spacetime research.
- Flowing soap films represent a significant advancement for analogue gravity experiments.
- Continued development of these systems will drive future discoveries.
Related Concept Videos
Steady, Laminar Flow Between Parallel Plates
Typical Model Studies
Energy Considerations in Open Channel Flow
Uniform Depth Channel Flow
Bernoulli's Equation for Flow Along a Streamline
Design Example: Creating a Hydraulic Model of a Dam Spillway

