How can I keep a Newton's Cradle going for a longer time?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to keep a Newton's Cradle in motion for an extended period. Participants explore various approaches to minimize energy loss, including material choices, alignment, and potential energizing mechanisms. The scope includes practical construction considerations and theoretical implications of energy conservation in mechanical systems.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest using balls made from hard materials like hardened steel or chromium-plated steel to reduce energy loss.
  • There is a proposal for ensuring that the suspensions of the balls are precisely aligned and identical to maintain consistent motion.
  • One participant inquires about the feasibility of a mechanical energizer as an alternative to an electrical one, expressing interest in how long the cradle might run without any energizer.
  • Another participant questions whether the number of balls in the cradle affects its performance.
  • It is noted that Newton's Cradles typically do not run for more than a few minutes without needing to be restarted.
  • A suggestion is made to consider using a solenoid device with a timer for energizing the cradle, and inspiration is drawn from old clock mechanisms for a purely mechanical solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various methods and ideas, but there is no consensus on the effectiveness of the proposed solutions or the impact of the number of balls on performance. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal approach to maintaining motion in a Newton's Cradle.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a definitive conclusion on the effectiveness of different materials or designs, and there are unresolved questions about the mechanical energizer's design and its potential impact on performance.

Michael2525
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I want to make a Newton Cradle. Just wondering how I can reduce the loss of energy so the balls keep bumping for a long time
 
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(1) Use balls made from very hard materials . Hardened steel or Chromium plated steel are commonly used .

(2) Have precisely aligned , identical and accurately repeating suspensions for the balls .

(3) If you want it to run for really extended periods you could devise an electromechanical energiser to give the balls a kick now and then .
 
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Nidum said:
(1) Use balls made from very hard materials . Hardened steel or Chromium plated steel are commonly used .

(2) Have precisely aligned , identical and accurately repeating suspensions for the balls .

(3) If you want it to run for really extended periods you could devise an electromechanical energiser to give the balls a kick now and then .
Is there anyway I can make a mechanical energizer rather than an electrical energizer? And how long do you think it will run if I don't have an energizer.
 
Also, does the amount of balls have an effect on the cradle?
 
Newton's cradles seldom run for more than a few minutes without having to be restarted .

A solenoid device and a timer would be simple enough to make . If you want to have a purely mechanical energiser then you could get some inspiration from old type clock mechanisms .

Not much to do with Newton's Cradles but quite fun :

 
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