Anyone here play portal? Mechanics question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mechanics of portals as depicted in the game "Portal," specifically focusing on a hypothetical scenario involving lifting a sheet of cardboard placed on a table with portals positioned above and below it. Participants explore the implications of portal mechanics on physical interactions and object movement.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that placing a portal on the underside of a table and another on a cardboard sheet could allow for lifting the cardboard, depending on the relative position of the portals.
  • Another participant expresses uncertainty about current physics describing portal interactions but leans towards the idea that lifting the cardboard is possible.
  • A different viewpoint posits that the ability to lift the cardboard hinges on whether the portal's position can change, suggesting that if it can, lifting is feasible.
  • One participant argues that if the feet are on the ground, lifting the sheet should be possible unless the portal is fixed and attached to the sheet.
  • Another participant counters that the position of the arms matters, indicating that the sheet would obstruct access to the portal.
  • Several participants discuss the limitations of placing portals on moving objects, with some expressing doubt about the feasibility of such actions in the game.
  • There are multiple mentions of the sequel to the game and its features, with participants sharing their experiences and opinions about both the original and sequel versions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the mechanics of portals, with no clear consensus on whether lifting the cardboard is possible or the implications of portal placement on object movement. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of portal interactions.

Contextual Notes

Participants rely on hypothetical scenarios and game mechanics, which may not align with real-world physics. The discussion includes assumptions about the nature of portals and their interactions with objects.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in game mechanics, physics in gaming, or those exploring conceptual discussions about the "Portal" series may find this thread engaging.

SeventhSigma
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Say I place a portal on the underside of a table. I place a large sheet of cardboard on top of the table and then place a portal on the sheet. I then stand in the portal so my legs are below-table and my torso is above-table. Can I lift the cardboard?
 
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I'm not sure current physics describes the interactions of "portals". However I personally would say yes, you can move it.
 
This is a great question. I think the answer would depend on whether or not a portal's relative position can be changed. If so, then I would say yes, you could lift the cardboard. Consequently, your legs would be forced to bend downwards to make room for your torso underneath the table. Otherwise, the table would need to be lifted as well.

Once again, this is a great question. I recently turned in a project analyzing the physics of "Portal" in my high school physics class, and I think my teacher will be happy to hear this question.
 
If your feet are on the ground I would say that you should be able to lift the sheet in both the case where the portal moves with the sheet and in the case where the sheet is fixed in space but permits matter to pass trough its position. The only time it would not permit the movement would be when the portal is fixed in space and completely attached to the sheet.

Anybody tried the new Portal ?
 
Depends on where your arms are. Actually, the sheet would be in between the underside of the table and the portal. You can't reach it.
 
Are there even any movable objects that you can shoot a portal onto? Somebody should try this out in the game.
 
ideasrule said:
Are there even any movable objects that you can shoot a portal onto? Somebody should try this out in the game.

if I remember correctly all box objects are smaller than a portal.
 
bp_psy said:
if I remember correctly all box objects are smaller than a portal.

Correct.

I don't think you could make a portal on a moving object.
 
ideasrule said:
Somebody should try this out in the game.
I want to, but I don't have it yet.
JaredJames said:
I don't think you could make a portal on a moving object.
Maybe they could add that feature in a sequel.
 
  • #10
FtlIsAwesome said:
I want to, but I don't have it yet.

You're missing out big time.
Maybe they could add that feature in a sequel.

The sequel was just released.
 
  • #11
I am going to play it soon!
 
  • #12
JaredJames said:
You're missing out big time.


The sequel was just released.

Have you tried both 1 and 2? Most people say that Portal 1 is definitely worth the small price, but 2 is $50.
 
  • #13
ideasrule said:
Have you tried both 1 and 2? Most people say that Portal 1 is definitely worth the small price, but 2 is $50.

Only played 1, awaiting delivery of 2.
 
  • #14
JaredJames said:
Only played 1, awaiting delivery of 2.

The co-op in Portal 2 is worth it alone. It's awesome to solve puzzles that require 4 portals and not just 2.
 

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