This research employs analytical and numerical modeling to explore the close interaction, deformation, and coalescence of liquid drops in motion. Specific issues to be addressed are: the lubrication force and mobility functions of nearly spherical drops, collision rate predictions, intervening film drainage times, and the influence of van der Waals forces. The development of a suitable model for such phenomena, and predictions from it, will lead to improved prediction capability in the areas of sedimentation, emulsions, and flocculation.
