Is the Longer Path Quicker in Physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of the brachistochrone curve and whether a longer path can be quicker in terms of physics. Participants explore the implications of velocity, the nature of demonstrations related to the phenomenon, and share personal experiences related to the topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants reference the brachistochrone curve as a principle that demonstrates how a longer path can be quicker under certain conditions.
  • There is skepticism regarding the authenticity of visual demonstrations, with some participants questioning whether the configurations shown in videos are real or CGI.
  • Participants agree that the final velocity must be equal at the end of the paths being compared, distinguishing this from average speed considerations.
  • Some express a sense of wonder about the phenomenon, recalling personal experiences from physics classes that involved modeling similar experiments.
  • Links to previous discussions on related topics are shared, indicating ongoing interest and exploration of the subject.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the principle that final speed must be equal, but there is disagreement regarding the validity of certain visual demonstrations and the nature of the configurations presented.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the nature of the demonstrations and the conditions under which the brachistochrone principle applies remain unresolved. The discussion does not clarify whether all participants accept the validity of the examples shared.

valenumr
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TL;DR
So, I'm well out of date from my engineering education, but can this be true?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]
 
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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.
 
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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??


 
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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"
 

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