Can Magnetic Forces Create Perpetual Motion in a Vacuum?

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SUMMARY

The discussion confirms that creating perpetual motion using magnetic forces in a vacuum is impossible. The proposed setup involves three stationary magnets and a free-moving magnet within a spiral groove. Despite the intriguing design, the laws of physics, particularly the conservation of energy, dictate that perpetual motion machines (PPM) cannot exist. Participants emphasize focusing on realistic scientific concepts rather than pursuing unattainable perpetual motion theories.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic magnetism and magnetic forces
  • Familiarity with the laws of thermodynamics
  • Knowledge of conservation of energy principles
  • Basic concepts of mechanical systems and motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the laws of thermodynamics, specifically the first and second laws
  • Explore the concept of magnetic fields and their interactions
  • Study existing perpetual motion machine designs and their failures
  • Learn about energy conservation in mechanical systems
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This discussion is beneficial for physicists, engineering students, and hobbyists interested in understanding the limitations of perpetual motion and the fundamental principles of magnetism and energy conservation.

Jacen
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*Please note that I can only follow concepts, the actual mathematics confuse me terribly.

Is it possible to create perpetual motion if the following circumstances are given:

An enclosed space with one three stationary magnets, one on top, bottom, and one connecting the two centers. The environment is a vacuum.

The longitudinal magnet is a spiral, made from attached magnets so that there a series of alternating poles all along its length. A free moving magnet, fit to oppose the top, bottom, and central magnets is placed in the spiral groove.

Would the moving magnet, when dropped from the top of the spiral, fall without friction to the bottom of the arrangement, then be forced back up again because of the opposing magnetic forces and then repeat?

If this sounds confusing please ask some questions so I can try to clarify.
 
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Jacen said:
Is it possible to create perpetual motion...

In a word, NO.
 
Welcome to the PF, Jacen. Here are some prior threads where the impossibility of PPM machines has been described. Hope they help you understand why they are impossible, and honestly not worth you spending many brain cycles on. Focus on the real stuff, and you will be using your time much more wisely.

This thread is now locked.
 

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