Use Archimede's Spiral For Accelerate An Object.

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of using an Archimede Spiral to help accelerate an object. The concept is that by applying a force perpendicular to the spiral, the spiral can turn without consuming energy. However, it is pointed out that this only works in an ideal situation with no friction. In reality, the spiral does not provide any energy benefits and the same amount of energy is needed to accelerate the object, with or without the spiral.
  • #1
lba
43
0
Hi,

Is it possible to help to accelerate an object with an Archimede Spiral ? We can apply a force F perpendiculary to the spiral, like this if we want to turn the spiral in its center we don't need energy. If we want to accelerate an object near the spiral, we apply a force F to the spiral, the spiral apply the same force in the contrary direction. The object accelerate. The spiral can turn without energy if the force F is perpendiculary to the surface (it's possible with an Archimede Spiral). Like the object accelerate, if we want always a contact between the spiral and the object, we need to accelerate the spiral, but this don't require more energy. In this case what is the energy need for accelerate the object ? It is the same without spiral ? Why ?
 

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  • #2
The spiral is not a circle, so you can't have F perpendicular to it in this arrangement. So there will be some work of F, and energy will be consumed.
 
  • #3
You're right but if I use 4 centers like the figure show, it's not possible to turn the spiral without energy ? It's an approximation and a little energy is needed but less I think.
 

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  • #4
lba said:
You're right but if I use 4 centers like the figure show, it's not possible to turn the spiral without energy ? It's an approximation and a little energy is needed but less I think.

If the object to move is on a frictionless surface, then, theoretically, you need an infinitely small energy and infinite time to move the object to any distance, with or without the spiral. If, however, there is friction, then the force of friction will do work that is proportional to the mass of the object and the distance to move, and you cannot spend less energy than that, again, with or without the spiral.

All in all, the spiral gives you nothing in terms of energy.
 
  • #5


Hello,

The concept of using an Archimede's Spiral to accelerate an object is an interesting one. However, it is important to note that the spiral itself does not provide any additional energy for acceleration. The force applied to the spiral, as described in your scenario, is simply transferred to the object through contact. This means that the energy needed to accelerate the object is still the same, regardless of whether the spiral is present or not.

The purpose of the spiral in this scenario is to facilitate the transfer of force from the applied force to the object. As you mentioned, if the force is applied perpendicular to the spiral's surface, the spiral can turn without requiring additional energy. However, the force applied to the spiral must still come from an external source, such as a motor or a person pushing on the spiral.

In terms of the energy needed to accelerate the object, it is the same with or without the spiral. The spiral does not add or subtract any energy from the system, it simply acts as a medium for the transfer of force.

I hope this helps clarify the concept. As a scientist, it is important to carefully consider the principles of physics and energy conservation when proposing new ideas or methods for accelerating objects.
 

1. How does Archimede's spiral work to accelerate an object?

Archimede's spiral is a mathematical concept that describes the path of a point moving away from a central point while also turning around it at a constant rate. When applied to the acceleration of an object, it means that the object will continue to move forward while also increasing its speed in a circular motion around a central point.

2. Can Archimede's spiral be used to accelerate any object?

While Archimede's spiral can be used to accelerate many objects, it is most commonly applied to objects moving through a fluid medium, such as air or water. This is because the spiral's shape is ideal for minimizing drag and maximizing acceleration in these environments.

3. How is Archimede's spiral different from other methods of accelerating an object?

Archimede's spiral is unique in that it combines both linear and rotational motion to accelerate an object. Other methods, such as using a propeller or jet engine, rely solely on linear motion to produce acceleration.

4. Is Archimede's spiral used in any real-world applications?

Yes, Archimede's spiral is used in various real-world applications, such as in the design of aircraft wings and propellers, as well as in the design of turbines and other machinery that move through a fluid medium.

5. Are there any limitations to using Archimede's spiral for accelerating objects?

While Archimede's spiral can be an effective method for accelerating objects, it does have some limitations. For example, it may not be the most efficient method for accelerating very large or heavy objects, as the spiral's shape may not be able to generate enough force to overcome the object's mass.

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