Can Kinetic Energy Be Transferred Without Direct Contact?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of transferring kinetic energy between two objects without direct contact. Participants explore various theoretical and practical examples, including gravitational effects, electromagnetic forces, and other mechanisms that may facilitate such energy transfer.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that gravitational slingshots could be a method of transferring kinetic energy without contact, referencing its use in space travel.
  • Others propose the operation of induction-type electric motors as an example where electrical energy creates motion without physical contact.
  • One participant mentions a glider gaining potential energy (PE) from thermal currents, which it can convert to kinetic energy (KE), questioning if this counts as non-contact energy transfer.
  • Another participant extends the idea of non-contact energy transfer to include the energy derived from food, which is ultimately sourced from the sun.
  • There is a suggestion to consider using magnets with like poles on a Newton's cradle to explore energy transfer without direct contact.
  • Static electricity is also mentioned as a means of picking up objects without direct contact, highlighting another potential method of energy transfer.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the definition of "touching" or the criteria for what constitutes non-contact energy transfer. Multiple competing views and examples are presented, leaving the discussion unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reveals ambiguity in the definition of "touching" and the criteria for energy transfer, which may affect the interpretations of the examples provided. Some claims rely on specific definitions or contexts that are not universally agreed upon.

radaballer
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Is there a way to transfer kinetic energy between two objects without the objects touching one another?
 
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Depends on your definition of "touching" (which is not well defined).

Many ideas come to mind. Have heard of gravitational slingshot? Its used for crafts traveling around the solar system.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravity_assist
 
radaballer said:
Is there a way to transfer kinetic energy between two objects without the objects touching one another?

Think about how an induction-type electric motor works. Electrical energy flows through the stator coils, creating electromagnetic forces that spin the shaft. There's no touching there.
 
A glider in a thermal gains PE which it can convert to KE. The energy ultimately came from the sun. Neither touch directly. Does that count?
 
CWatters said:
A glider in a thermal gains PE which it can convert to KE. The energy ultimately came from the sun. Neither touch directly. Does that count?
The energy I gain from my breakfast ultimately came from the sun, which I never touched. Does that count?
 
ModusPwnd said:
Depends on your definition of "touching" (which is not well defined).

Many ideas come to mind. Have heard of gravitational slingshot? Its used for crafts traveling around the solar system.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravity_assist

Im thinking more along the lines of a Newton's cradle, is there a way to transfer this energy through a wire or apparatus of some sort?
 
You could put magnets with like poles on each ball of a Newtons cradle.
 
Nugatory said:
Think about how an induction-type electric motor works. Electrical energy flows through the stator coils, creating electromagnetic forces that spin the shaft. There's no touching there.

This is the most common example I can think of. Picking things up with static electricity is a close second. :)
 

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