Everything Everywhere Daily Chasing the Impossible: The Enigma of Perpetual Motion (Encore)
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Jan 15, 2025 Dive into the captivating world of perpetual motion machines, where the dream of limitless energy has inspired countless inventors throughout history. From the ambitious designs of Leonardo da Vinci to Johann Bessler's intriguing claims, the allure of these impossible devices keeps fascination alive. The discussion also delves into the scientific principles of thermodynamics that debunk the feasibility of such machines. Despite overwhelming evidence, the quest for perpetual motion endures, showcasing humanity's relentless pursuit of the impossible.
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Bhaskara Wheel
- Bhaskara II designed the first known perpetual motion device, the Bhaskara Wheel, in the 12th century.
- It used weighted balls or liquid in compartments around a wheel to theoretically create continuous rotation.
Drebbel's Clock
- Cornelius Drebbel, known for his submarine work, created a self-winding clock in 1607.
- While impressive, it wasn't true perpetual motion; it relied on changes in atmospheric pressure.
Bessler's Deception
- Johann Bessler claimed to have built hundreds of perpetual motion machines in the 18th century, fooling some prominent scientists.
- One wheel reportedly ran for two months locked in a room, but his claims were likely fraudulent.