Louder than an airplane: Scientists analyse 'pop' of swing-top bottle

Yahoo! News - Mar 18th, 2025
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In a fascinating study, physicists from the University of Göttingen, led by Max Koch, have discovered that the 'pop' sound of opening a swing-top bottle can briefly reach 180 decibels, making it louder than standing near a jet engine. Using home-brewed ginger beer in swing-top bottles, the researchers employed microphones and high-speed cameras to analyze this phenomenon. The study found that when the bottle is opened, the pressurized carbon dioxide inside rapidly expands and cools, creating a sound at about 800 hertz for 70 milliseconds. The pressure drop also causes the formation of bubbles, contributing to the familiar fizzing effect.

This research, published in the journal Physics of Fluids, highlights the complex interplay of pressure, temperature, and gas expansion in creating the iconic sound. While the study primarily focused on beer bottles, similar effects are observed in champagne bottles, albeit for a fraction of a second. The findings not only offer insights into the physics of everyday experiences but also showcase the potential for playful exploration in scientific inquiry. This 'fun project' by Koch and his team, who are also hobby brewers, underscores the broader significance of understanding fluid dynamics and acoustic phenomena in pressurized systems.

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RATING

6.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides an informative exploration of the scientific phenomena associated with the 'pop' sound of swing-top bottles, grounded in a study published in a reputable journal. While the article is clear and accessible, with a focus on scientific explanation, it lacks a range of perspectives and broader implications that would enhance its balance and public interest. The reliance on a single source limits the depth of the analysis, and the absence of direct citations from the study reduces transparency. Despite these limitations, the article's clarity and engagement potential make it a valuable read for those interested in the science behind everyday experiences.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The news story provides a detailed account of a study on the sound produced by swing-top bottles, conducted by physicists in Germany. The claim that the gas vibrates at a frequency of about 800 hertz and reaches a sound pressure of 180 decibels for a split second appears to be grounded in scientific research, as it is attributed to a study published in the journal *Physics of Fluids*. However, the comparison of the sound to that of a jet engine, which is typically around 140 decibels, might be exaggerated or taken out of context, requiring further verification from the original study.

The explanation of the physical phenomena, such as the rapid expansion of pressurized carbon dioxide and the resulting temperature drop to minus 50 degrees Celsius, is consistent with known principles of thermodynamics. However, these specific figures require validation from the study's data to ensure precision. The story also mentions the use of high-speed cameras and microphones, which adds credibility to the experimental setup but still necessitates confirmation from the published research.

Overall, while the story seems to present factual information, the reliance on a single source (the study) without direct quotes or detailed data points from the publication leaves room for potential inaccuracies. The factual accuracy is generally sound, but the lack of direct access to the study limits full verification of all claims.

6
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the scientific findings of a single study conducted by physicists in Germany. While it provides a detailed explanation of the phenomena observed, it does not offer a range of perspectives or counterarguments. The story lacks input from other experts in the field who could provide additional context or critique the study's methodology and conclusions.

The absence of alternative viewpoints or related research limits the story's balance. Including perspectives from other physicists or scientists who could corroborate or challenge the findings would enhance the article's depth. Furthermore, the story does not address potential implications or applications of the research, which could provide a more comprehensive view of its significance.

Overall, the article presents a singular narrative centered around the study's findings, which could be perceived as biased towards the researchers' perspective. A more balanced approach would involve incorporating diverse viewpoints and exploring the broader context of the research.

8
Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, providing a logical explanation of the scientific phenomena associated with the "pop" sound of swing-top bottles. The language is accessible to a general audience, with technical terms explained in layman's terms, such as the description of gas expansion and temperature changes.

The story maintains a neutral tone, focusing on the scientific aspects of the research without resorting to sensationalism. The use of specific examples, such as the comparison to champagne bottles, helps to illustrate the concepts discussed and enhances reader comprehension.

However, the article could benefit from a more detailed breakdown of the experimental setup and results, which would provide readers with a clearer understanding of the study's scope and limitations. Despite this, the overall clarity of the article is strong, making it accessible and informative for a wide audience.

7
Source quality

The primary source for the article is a study published in the journal *Physics of Fluids*, which suggests a high level of scientific credibility. The involvement of Max Koch, a physicist from the University of Göttingen, adds authority to the claims made in the story. However, the article does not provide direct quotes or references from the study, which would strengthen the reliability of the information presented.

The story lacks additional sources that could corroborate or expand upon the findings, such as interviews with other experts or references to related studies. This reliance on a single source limits the depth of the article and raises questions about the potential for undisclosed biases or conflicts of interest.

While the source quality is generally strong due to the academic nature of the study, the lack of diverse sources and direct citations from the publication itself slightly diminishes the article's overall credibility.

6
Transparency

The article provides some transparency by mentioning the study's publication in the journal *Physics of Fluids* and identifying Max Koch as the research leader. However, it does not offer detailed explanations of the study's methodology or data, which would enhance the transparency of the findings.

The story does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest, such as funding sources for the research or the researchers' affiliations beyond their academic positions. This lack of disclosure raises questions about the impartiality of the findings and whether any external factors could have influenced the research.

Overall, while the article provides some contextual information, it falls short in offering a comprehensive view of the study's methodology and potential biases. Greater transparency in these areas would improve the article's credibility and trustworthiness.

Sources

  1. https://brulosophy.com/2020/01/20/bottle-conditioning-crown-cap-vs-swing-top-exbeeriment-results/
  2. https://community.diybeer.com/topic/11774-swingflip-top-bottles-going-flat/
  3. https://www.tiktok.com/@johnnykyunghwo/video/7211188107323002117