Expérimental et théorique
In this master project, we will investigate experimentally and theoretically how a single artificial active particle behaves when confined in a potential harmonic well. In this experiment, the active particle consists in a self-propelled millimetric Marangoni boat fueled with camphor or alcohol. It is placed on the interface of a soap film hanging on a horizontal frame. In this configuration, the film acts as a harmonic potential well attracting interfacial bodies towards its center. The student will investigate some original aspects of the dynamics of a self-propelled milli-swimmer on a soap film, and characterize the system’s mechanical/physical properties for different shapes and number of swimmers, as well as soap film interface composition.