Simulation of the Deformation Process of a Freely Rising Bubble Using the Lattice Boltzmann Method

Abstract Bubbles exhibit nonlinear motion characteristics in liquids, with their interfaces undergoing significant deformation during movement, resulting in complex and diverse situations. In this paper, the lattice Boltzmann method is employed to numerically simulate the deformation behavior of a freely rising single bubble. The focus is on examining the effects of bubble size, surface tension, liquid viscosity, and liquid density on bubble deformation and obtaining the variation of the Weber number of bubble deformation. The results indicate that the essence of bubble deformation lies in the dynamic interplay between inertial forces, viscous forces, and surface tension. The Weber number serves as an effective comprehensive indicator of the relative importance of these three factors. Notably, surface tension emerges as the pivotal factor inhibiting deformation, whereas liquid density and bubble size facilitate deformation by amplifying inertial forces. The role of liquid viscosity exhibits nonmonotonicity, stemming from its dual function as both a damping dissipator and a shear deformation transmitter.