Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the possibility of a solid object moving upwards on an inclined plane without any external force, relying solely on its weight and friction. Participants explore the implications of rotational motion and the conditions under which such movement might occur, engaging with concepts of energy and momentum conservation.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- One participant asserts that it is impossible for an object to move upwards on an incline without external force, citing conservation of energy and momentum.
- Another participant suggests that the presence of friction allows for different outcomes, referencing an example of an orbital sander moving across a surface.
- A later reply proposes that an unbalanced wheel could roll up an incline, challenging the initial assertion of impossibility.
- Another participant describes a scenario involving a tin can with a weight taped inside, suggesting that this setup could allow the can to roll up the slope.
- One participant acknowledges that the center of mass (CM) position affects the motion, arguing that energy conservation is not violated in this non-isolated system.
- Another participant mentions seeing a similar concept in an advertisement, suggesting that if the final state has lower net energy, the object could move up to minimize energy.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the feasibility of an object moving upwards on an incline without external force. While some assert it is impossible, others propose various scenarios where it could occur, indicating a lack of consensus.
Contextual Notes
The discussion includes assumptions about the nature of forces, energy states, and the role of friction, which may not be fully explored or agreed upon by all participants.
How about an unbalanced wheel? If placed so, then it will roll such that it moves a short distance up the incline.
