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Perpetual motion

perpetual motion

The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable | 2006 | | Copyright

perpetual motion the motion of a hypothetical machine which, once activated, would run forever unless subject to an external force or to wear; although impossible according to the first and second laws of thermodynamics, the development of such a mechanism has been attempted by many inventors. The Dutch philosopher and inventor Cornelis Drebbel (1572–1634), in England in the early 17th century, was said to have perfected such a device, which he presented to the king, and which became one of the sights of the day.
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ELIZABETH KNOWLES. "perpetual motion." The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 2006. Encyclopedia.com. 31 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

ELIZABETH KNOWLES. "perpetual motion." The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 2006. Encyclopedia.com. (May 31, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O214-perpetualmotion.html

ELIZABETH KNOWLES. "perpetual motion." The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 2006. Retrieved May 31, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O214-perpetualmotion.html

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perpetual motion

World Encyclopedia | 2005 | Copyright

perpetual motion Hypothetical machine that continues to work without any energy being supplied. Such a machine would require either the complete elimination of friction, or would have to violate the laws of thermodynamics.
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"perpetual motion." World Encyclopedia. 2005. Retrieved May 31, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O142-perpetualmotion.html

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