Acoustic emission of single laser-produced cavitation bubbles and their dynamics

Cavitation bubble dynamics is investigated by the method of ‘optic cavitation’, i.e. the formation of single cavities in liquids by light. From the sound waves radiated upon collapse the pressure-time curve is obtained. Maximum bubble size and shock wave amplitudes are evaluated and an energy balance is considered. Numerical calculations with a modified Gilmore model taking into account the mass loss of the cavity can explain the rapid damping of the bubble oscillation observed in the experiments.