B Is the Longer Path Quicker in Physics?

  • B
  • Thread starter Thread starter valenumr
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Link Physics
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around the brachistochrone curve, highlighting its principle where the final velocity must be equal, not the average speed. Participants express skepticism about the authenticity of a specific CGI demonstration featuring multiple peaks, despite acknowledging the real phenomenon. The conversation reflects on past physics classes and experiments related to the topic, emphasizing the intriguing nature of physics. Examples are shared to illustrate the phenomenon further. Overall, the thread explores the complexities and curiosities of the brachistochrone problem in physics.
valenumr
Messages
469
Reaction score
193
TL;DR Summary
So, I'm well out of date from my engineering education, but can this be true? I don't think so. Conservation of energy, but I'd appreciate an expert opinion.
It's just a link,

Unreal?

[Mentor note: The thread title has been edited to be a bit more specific]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
Well, I mean it is fake. It's CGI.
But it might not be false.

I've seen the brachistochrone curve demonstrated, so I know the principle is sound.
1708230481819.png


But I don't know for sure that the configuration in your link - with its multiple, smooth peaks - is real. I've never seen a multi-peak demonstration. I am skeptical.
I would not take the word of that video.
 
  • Like
Likes russ_watters
IMO, the image might be CGI, but the phenomenon is real. The faster ball appears to be traveling along multiple brachistochrone curves.
 
Heree are two examples of this phenomenon! Isn't physics weird??


 
  • Like
  • Informative
Likes Dale, jack action and OmCheeto
valenumr said:
I think only the velocity has to be equal at the end.
Exactly, final speed must be equal, not average speed.
 
docnet said:
Heree are two examples of this phenomenon! Isn't physics weird??



Oh, I remember this things, at physics classes, we tried to model such an experiment, which was interesting. I still remember how our professor said: "For those who do not study physics, natural things can be magic"
 
Back
Top