TED-Ed: Why don't perpetual motion machines ever work? - Netta Schramm

The video explores the concept of perpetual motion machines, starting with Bhaskara's early design. It explains why such machines violate the laws of thermodynamics, particularly the first and second laws, which state that energy cannot be created or destroyed and that energy tends to spread out. Various failed designs, including overbalanced wheels and magnetic systems, are discussed. Despite these challenges, the search for perpetual motion continues, driven by the potential to revolutionize energy use, though current understanding of physics deems it impossible.

What are some examples of perpetual motion machines that have been proposed?

Describe how friction affects the operation of a real machine.

Why is it difficult to conclusively say that perpetual motion machines will never be discovered?