Abstract
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.
- Received 26 April 2002
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.89.204501
©2002 American Physical Society