What is Centrifugal Propulsion and Why is it Confusing?

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SUMMARY

Centrifugal propulsion is a concept that lacks scientific validity and is often misrepresented in various online videos. The discussion highlights that these videos typically feature poorly constructed demonstrations of vehicles that exhibit erratic movements. Experts confirm that centrifugal propulsion is impossible and equate it to a perpetual motion device, which violates fundamental laws of physics. The consensus is to disregard such content as it contributes to confusion rather than understanding.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, particularly Newton's laws of motion.
  • Familiarity with concepts of propulsion and energy transfer.
  • Knowledge of the scientific method and distinguishing between science and pseudo-science.
  • Awareness of common misconceptions in physics, such as perpetual motion theories.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the laws of thermodynamics and their implications on energy conservation.
  • Study Newton's laws of motion to understand the fundamentals of propulsion.
  • Explore legitimate propulsion technologies, such as ion propulsion and rocket propulsion.
  • Investigate the scientific community's stance on pseudo-scientific claims and how to identify them.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of propulsion and the importance of scientific integrity in technology discussions.

JTC
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Hi

I am spending time on youtube looking at videos that come up when I search "Centrifugal propulsion"

(No need for me to pick a few, you can do a search and see lots.)

Most of the videos look poorly made. All show some sort of "vehicle." But the "vehicle" jitters back and forth.

I am trying to first get an understanding of what this is all about.

What is going on here? What are all these people trying to say?

Doesn't one still have to get the masses up and spinning? Are they trying to get at some sort of perpetual motion device? I am just confused at what I am seeing.

Does anyone have a simple reference so that, before I even start looking at the physics, I can understand what the issue is?
 
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JTC said:
I am trying to first get an understanding of what this is all about.

What is going on here? What are all these people trying to say?

Doesn't one still have to get the masses up and spinning? Are they trying to get at some sort of perpetual motion device? I am just confused at what I am seeing.

It's nonsense, pure and simple. Centrifugal propulsion is impossible and I highly recommend simply ignoring these videos, as they will do nothing but confuse you. Any sort of reactionless drive is a violation of the laws of physics and nothing but a pipe dream.

Thread locked since we don't discuss pseudo-science like this here at PF.
 

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