Surface-tension-gradient-induced pattern formation in monolayers

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Abstract
A surface-tension-gradient-induced growth phenomenon is reported in lipid monolayer films. The surface tension gradient is introduced to the monolayer film by local, subtle heating using the microscope light. This surface tension gradient is responsible for compressing the illuminated area continuously and induces the growth of domains of liquid condensed phase. The evolution of morphology from fractal to faceted and then to dendritic patterns is investigated by in situ observations. The mechanism of pattern formation in this system is discussed.