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Froths and foams are complex structures, particularly those that disappear irreversibly. Superconducting froth, however, can be reversibly controlled by several external parameters, so it may help quantify froth dynamics across different systems.
Our tools for understanding phase transitions at thermal equilibrium do not usually apply to granular matter. However, a vibrating quasi-one-dimensional system displays dynamic behaviour common to classic phase transitions.
Mixing two different types of grains in a revolving tumbler produces several radial streaks as the grains segregate. Unexpectedly though, after hundreds of revolutions, only one streak remains.