In chemistry, the study of sonochemistry is concerned with understanding the effect of sonic waves and wave properties on chemical systems. Since acoustic waves have unique physical properties, the corresponding atomic and molecular chemistry is unique as well. Often these effects are most apparent in ultrasonic systems. This is demonstrated in phenomenon such as ultrasound, sonication, sonoluminescence and sonic cavitation.

For example, in chemical kinetics, it has been observed that ultrasound can greatly enhance chemical reactivity in a number of systems; effectively acting as a catalyst by exciting the atomic and molecular modes of the system (such as the vibrational, rotational, and translational modes). In addition, in reactions that use solids ultrasound breaks up the solid pieces from the energy released from the bubbles created by cavitation collapsing through them. This gives the solid reactant a larger surface are for the reaction to proceed over, increasing the observed rate of reaction. Ultrasound produces radicals in liquids due to the high temperatures and pressures experienced locally when a bubble collapses.

Sonochemistry can be performed by using a bath (usually used for ultrasonic cleaning) or with a high power probe.

Chemistry | Quantum chemistry | Acoustics | Fluid dynamics | Ultrasound

Sonochemie