Perfect Spheres: A Theoretical Possibility or an Impossibility?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the theoretical existence of perfect spheres, concluding that they cannot exist in reality due to the atomic structure of matter. Participants argue that while the arc of a circle can be mathematically defined, the imperfections at the atomic level prevent any object from achieving perfect roundness. This aligns with the understanding that physical objects are subject to limitations imposed by their material composition.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of geometric principles, specifically circle and sphere definitions.
  • Familiarity with atomic structure and its implications on physical objects.
  • Basic knowledge of mathematical equations related to curves and arcs.
  • Concepts of theoretical vs. practical existence in physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research mathematical definitions of arcs and circles, focusing on equations that define curvature.
  • Explore atomic theory and its impact on the physical properties of materials.
  • Study the implications of theoretical constructs in physics, such as perfect shapes.
  • Investigate real-world examples of near-perfect spheres and their limitations.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, mathematicians, and anyone interested in the intersection of geometry and material science, particularly those exploring the limitations of theoretical constructs in the physical world.

kolleamm
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I've been wondering about this for a while. If you were to take a perfect sphere and cut it in half so that you would see a circle and then use a magnifying glass to zoom in closer and closer on part of the circle, the arc would approach near flatness but it would never reach it so therefore since an arc is constantly changing it cannot be fully defined therefore perfect spheres cannot exist in the real world. What do you think?
 
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Agree.

World's Roundest Object!:
 
kolleamm said:
If you were to take a perfect sphere and cut it in half so that you would see a circle and then use a magnifying glass to zoom in closer and closer on part of the circle, the arc would approach near flatness but it would never reach it so therefore since an arc is constantly changing it cannot be fully defined therefore perfect spheres cannot exist in the real world. What do you think?

That is incorrect. The arc of a circle is easily "defined" using several different equations. A perfect sphere cannot exist in real life mainly because matter is made up of atoms, which put a limit on how smooth and accurate the surface can be. It will never be perfectly round.
 
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Thanks everyone for the replies
 

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