Abstract: A valve or nozzle device for atomizing a liquid into very small drops comprises a valve member (21) having an annular surface part (24) diverging in a direction downstream of the valve seat (32). The valve member is reciprocatingly moveable between open and closed positions. The valve member (21) is opened very rapidly by an impact member (38) driven by magnetic forces generated by a solenoid (41). The vibrating frequency is controlled by an electric control circuit so as to obtain the desired small droplets and the desired dosage. The atomizing nozzle may, for example, be used to atomize a liquid medicament or to atomize liquid fuel.