Spheres roll easier than cubes due to the physics of motion, specifically the behavior of the center of mass (CoM). When a sphere rolls, its CoM remains at a constant height above the surface, minimizing energy loss. In contrast, a cube requires energy to lift its CoM when pivoting around an edge, resulting in energy loss through heat and sound upon landing. This fundamental difference in energy dynamics explains why spheres are more efficient in rolling motion compared to cubes and other irregular shapes.
PREREQUISITESStudents of physics, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of motion and energy efficiency in different geometric shapes.
MrAnchovy said:When a sphere rolls its centre of mass stays at a constant height above the surface.
MrAnchovy said:It doesn't (apart from a cylinder and similar shapes).
MrAnchovy said:Yes I guess that's it - there's not much more to say really, except that moving the centre of mass of say a cube up and pivoting it around an edge takes energy; some of this energy is released when the cube "falls" over the pivot edge but then that most of that energy is lost in heat and perhaps sound when the cube lands on a face, then you have to put more energy into lift the centre of mass again...