Water raising engine, 18th century
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Water raising engine, 18th century
Illustration showing an engine used to raise water. The weight of water in the lower bucket (A) pulls on the axle of the wheel at the top. This pulls the second bucket of water (B) upward until it empties into a trough (W) at the same time as the lower bucket empties into a drain (D). A gear lever then lets the buckets return to their original positions, at the level of the inflowing water (X). In practice, as with similar perpetual motion machines, the system does not account for the friction between components and therefore breaks the first law of thermodynamics. This engraving appeared in the Gentlemans Magazine of 1747
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Media ID 6332899
© Todd-White Art Photography
1700 1747 18th Balance Century Conservation Drawing Energy Engraved Engraving Falling Friction L Aw Machine Mobile Motion Thermodynamics Vertical Weight Mono Chrome Perpetual Violate Violation
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the 18th century, showcasing an ingenious water raising engine. The intricate illustration depicts a fascinating mechanism designed to harness the power of falling water in order to raise it effortlessly. At first glance, we see two buckets labeled A and B suspended from a wheel at the top of the contraption. The weight of water in bucket A pulls on the axle, causing bucket B to ascend until it empties its contents into a trough marked W. Simultaneously, bucket A releases its load into a drain labeled D. The engraving beautifully captures both the balance and motion involved in this perpetual machine. However, as with similar inventions of its time, this system violates the first law of thermodynamics due to friction between components. Despite its scientific limitations, this artwork is truly remarkable for its historical significance and technical precision. It serves as a testament to human ingenuity during an era when engineers sought innovative solutions for everyday challenges. Todd-White Art Photography has masterfully captured this engraving from the Gentlemans Magazine of 1747, preserving not only an image but also a piece of scientific history that continues to inspire awe today.
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