The evolution of a cavitation zone in a focused ultrasonic field

We have experimentally studied the generation of sonoluminescence (SL) and cavitation noise in the field of a focusing ultrasonic radiator during a gradual smooth increase in the applied voltage. In addition to the SL signal, we have recorded the output signal of a hydrophone situated behind the focal region of the radiator and measured the cavitation-noise spectrum. Four stages in the development of a cavitation zone have been distinguished as manifested by the specific character of dependences of the measured parameters on the voltage applied to the radiator. Spectral signs of the cavitation-noise characteristic of each stage of development of the cavitation zone.