Physics of Hurricane Balls

In summary, Hurricane Balls are small, spherical magnets that can be manipulated and arranged in various ways due to their strong magnetic force. They work by aligning and attracting to one another, creating unique shapes and structures. Studying their physics can help us understand magnetism and its applications in fields such as engineering and materials science. They can also be used for practical applications, such as magnetic levitation and creating new materials. When handling Hurricane Balls, it is important to exercise caution and keep them away from electronic devices and credit cards.
  • #1
pallidin
2,209
2
Physics of "Hurricane Balls"

Two ball bearings are welded together, placed on a mirror, and blown upon using a straw.
The RPM's reportedly can reach 10,000 rpm's.
There are numerous vid links, here's one:

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=d5c_1179564591

Anyway, I know this can also be done with marbles expoxied together.

Before posting this I searched Google using the terms "physics hurricane balls" as well as here in PF with the terms "hurricane balls' No joy on the physics of how they work.

Any insight as to how blowing on them through a straw can effect a rotation of these things to 10,000 rpm's? Thanks.
 
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  • #2
The physics behind "hurricane balls" is based on the concept of angular momentum. When the straw blows against the balls, the air pushes on them, which creates a small torque on them. This torque causes the balls to start rotating, and as they rotate, the air continues to push on them, exerting more torque and increasing their rotational speed. The faster the balls rotate, the more torque is applied, and so the speed increases even more until it reaches the point where the air is no longer able to push them any faster, resulting in a maximum rotational speed of around 10,000 RPM. The same principle applies to marbles epoxied together, although the shape of the balls may impact the speed at which they can reach this maximum rotational speed.
 
  • #3


I would like to first clarify that the term "hurricane balls" is not a scientific term and is more commonly known as a "balldrop spinner" or "balldrop vortex." These devices rely on the principle of angular momentum to achieve high rotational speeds.

When the two ball bearings are welded together, they form a single object with a fixed axis of rotation. When air is blown on the object, it creates a force that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. This force causes the object to rotate due to the principle of torque.

As the rotation begins, the object also experiences a phenomenon known as the Magnus effect. This is when a spinning object experiences a force perpendicular to both its rotation and the direction of airflow. In this case, the force generated by the Magnus effect is in the same direction as the force from blowing on the object, resulting in a positive feedback loop that increases the rotational speed.

The high rotational speeds of up to 10,000 rpm are possible due to the low friction of the ball bearings and the relatively small size of the object. This allows for minimal energy loss and a more efficient transfer of energy from the blowing force to the rotational motion.

In summary, the physics behind the "hurricane balls" or balldrop spinners is based on principles of torque, angular momentum, and the Magnus effect. These principles work together to create a self-sustaining rotation that can reach high speeds when the conditions are just right.
 

1. What are "Hurricane Balls"?

Hurricane Balls are small, spherical magnets that can be manipulated and arranged in a variety of ways due to their strong magnetic force.

2. How do Hurricane Balls work?

Hurricane Balls are made up of individual magnetic spheres that align and attract to one another, creating a strong magnetic force that allows them to stick together and form unique shapes and structures.

3. What is the purpose of studying the physics of Hurricane Balls?

Studying the physics of Hurricane Balls can help us understand the fundamental principles of magnetism and how these principles can be applied in various fields, such as engineering and materials science.

4. Can Hurricane Balls be used for practical applications?

Yes, Hurricane Balls have been used in various practical applications, such as in the development of magnetic levitation systems and in creating new materials with unique properties.

5. What are some safety precautions when handling Hurricane Balls?

It is important to handle Hurricane Balls with caution, as they can be very strong and may cause injury if they snap together on skin. It is also important to keep them away from electronic devices and credit cards, as their strong magnetic force can interfere with these items.

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