Perfect Spheres: A Theoretical Possibility or an Impossibility?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a perfect sphere and its existence in the real world. It is concluded that perfect spheres cannot exist due to the constant changing of the arc of a circle and the limitations of matter. There is also a mention of the World's Roundest Object, which further supports this idea.
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kolleamm
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I've been wondering about this for a while. If you were to take a perfect sphere and cut it in half so that you would see a circle and then use a magnifying glass to zoom in closer and closer on part of the circle, the arc would approach near flatness but it would never reach it so therefore since an arc is constantly changing it cannot be fully defined therefore perfect spheres cannot exist in the real world. What do you think?
 
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  • #2
Agree.

World's Roundest Object!:
 
  • #3
kolleamm said:
If you were to take a perfect sphere and cut it in half so that you would see a circle and then use a magnifying glass to zoom in closer and closer on part of the circle, the arc would approach near flatness but it would never reach it so therefore since an arc is constantly changing it cannot be fully defined therefore perfect spheres cannot exist in the real world. What do you think?

That is incorrect. The arc of a circle is easily "defined" using several different equations. A perfect sphere cannot exist in real life mainly because matter is made up of atoms, which put a limit on how smooth and accurate the surface can be. It will never be perfectly round.
 
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Thanks everyone for the replies
 

Related to Perfect Spheres: A Theoretical Possibility or an Impossibility?

1. Can perfect spheres exist?

The concept of a perfect sphere is a mathematical ideal and does not exist in the physical world. However, there are objects that can be considered very close to perfect spheres, such as planets and some types of artificial spheres.

2. How do we define a perfect sphere?

A perfect sphere is a three-dimensional object with a perfectly round shape and every point on its surface is equidistant from its center. It has no imperfections or irregularities in its shape.

3. What factors affect the creation of perfect spheres?

The creation of perfect spheres is affected by several factors, including the material used, the manufacturing process, and external forces such as gravity. It is impossible to create a perfect sphere due to these factors.

4. Why is it difficult to create a perfect sphere?

As mentioned before, the concept of a perfect sphere is a mathematical ideal and does not exist in the physical world. The imperfections and irregularities in materials and manufacturing processes make it impossible to create a perfect sphere.

5. Are there any objects that come close to being perfect spheres?

Yes, there are objects that can be considered very close to perfect spheres, such as planets, stars, and some types of artificial spheres. However, upon closer examination, these objects also have imperfections and irregularities in their shape.

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