The discussion revolves around the behavior of a magnetic setup in a frictionless environment, specifically whether the south pole of a magnet will rotate towards the north pole, causing the entire system to rotate. The scope includes theoretical considerations of magnetic interactions and rotational dynamics.
Participants express differing views on whether the south pole will rotate towards the north pole and whether such a rotation can cause the entire system to rotate. The discussion remains unresolved, with some participants questioning the feasibility of the proposed motion.
The discussion includes assumptions about the nature of magnetic attraction and the mechanics of rotation in a frictionless environment. There are unresolved questions regarding the interaction of forces and torques within the system.
Why not the other way around?pbhuter said:If I have a magnetic setup in frictionless, etc. area as follows:
N
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Will the "south" pole rotate up to the "north" pole, causing the system as a whole to rotate?
It is my understanding (and it has been awhile since magnetics in college) that it would rotate toward "north" - like a compass. But for sure I would like to be able to control the direction of rotation...A.T. said:Why not the other way around?
Are the vertical and horizontal bars free to rotate relative to each other, like the compass needle can rotate relative the Earth? If, yes do they have the same mass ratio as the a compass needle and the Earth?pbhuter said:like a compass
pbhuter said:This is operating in a frictionless environment. Each bar is the same mass, and like I said there are four making a complete cross. I am trying to see if the whole thing will start rotating about the center as the "south pole" is attracted to the "north pole".
No. An internal force cannot cause a net torque.pbhuter said:causing the system as a whole to rotate?