The dynamics of single bubble sonoluminescence (SBSL) strongly depends on the
percentage of inert gas within the bubble. We propose a theory for this
dependence, based on a combination of principles from sonochemistry and
hydrodynamic stability. The nitrogen and oxygen dissociation and subsequent
reaction to water soluble gases implies that strongly forced air bubbles
eventually consist of pure argon. Thus it is the partial argon (or any other
inert gas) pressure which is relevant for stability. The theory provides
quantitative explanations for many aspects of SBSL.Comment: 4 page