It has been known since ancient times that when a small amount of oil is poured into water it is able to significantly reduce or calm wind-induced waves at the surface. This stilling of the waves is referred to as the Oil-on-Water Calming Effect and is the origin behind the well-known phrase "to pour oil on troubled waters."
Author: psidot
Keywords: Oil-on-Water calming effect pour oil troubled waters surface tension physics experiments demonstrations
Added: July 21, 2007
