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Mario J. Pinheiro

Publications and source records attributed to Mario J. Pinheiro.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
arXiv2026

Why does walking to the center of a merry-go-round feel so hard? Coriolis stabilization and the metabolic cost of staying on track

We revisit Feynman's classic carousel problem (\textit{Feynman Lectures}, Vol.~1, Sec.~19.4), in which a student walks radially inward on a platform driven at constant angular velocity $\omega_0$ by an external motor. Working consistently in the frame co-rotating with the platform, we show that the student's kinetic energy in that frame is exactly \emph{constant}: the mechanical work done by the real radial friction force is exactly cancelled by the work done against the centrifugal inertial force. The Coriolis inertial force, and the equal-and-opposite tangential friction force required to cancel it and keep the student on a straight radial path, do \emph{zero} mechanical work, because both are perpendicular to the radial velocity. Yet generating that tangential force costs metabolic energy -- precisely the effect Feynman flagged with ``one has to lean over and push sidewise.'' The mechanical model adopted here (a point mass with kinematically imposed trajectory) is deliberately silent about internal physiology; the metabolic cost discussion of Sec.~\ref{sec:cost} is a separate phenomenological layer, explicitly flagged as such, not derived from the mechanics. We give an order-of-magnitude metabolic estimate, an entropy-production argument connecting the exercise to the second law, a feedback (PD-controller) reformulation of the same physics, and a playground experiment students can run with a phone and a heart-rate strap. Throughout, we are explicit about reference frames and about the limits of each model.

physics.gen-ph↗
arXiv2026

Non-Hermitian Causal Memory Generates Observable Temporal Correlations Invisible to Spectral Analysis

We identify a new class of non-Hermitian causal processes that produce statistically significant temporal correlations invisible to conventional spectral methods. Using a generative model with a strictly causal memory kernel, we demonstrate that time-asymmetric stochastic processes naturally yield sharp transitions at characteristic scales that appear as localized structures in similarity space but leave no trace in power spectra. The model predicts an asymmetric transition profile with orientation-dependent asymmetry parameter $A(\theta)=A_0\cos(\theta+\delta)$ and achieves quantitative agreement ($\chi^2/\mathrm{dof}=0.50$, $p=0.86$) with high-precision counting experiments exhibiting $p<10^{-15}$ significance. These results establish a fundamental limitation of spectral analysis for non-Hermitian, non-stationary processes and provide experimentally testable signatures of causal memory in open quantum systems.

cond-mat.stat-mech↗
arXiv2026

Nonlinear Scalar Interactions in the EMDrive: Petiau's Elliptic-Function Approach

The EMDrive, a controversial electromagnetic propulsion concept, challenges momentum conservation in standard Maxwell electrodynamics. We propose a beyond-Maxwell framework by coupling the electromagnetic field to a light scalar field, inspired by axion-like particle models and effective field theory. Using Guy Petiau's 1958 elliptic-function solutions for nonlinear wave equations, we construct exact cavity modes and combine them via Jacobi addition theorems. These nonlinear modes produce an asymmetric momentum flux, suggesting a theoretical pathway for EMDrive thrust. We compute the stress-tensor asymmetry numerically and show that while standard axion-like particles yield negligible effects, light scalars beyond current constraints could produce measurable thrust. The framework provides testable predictions connecting EMDrive physics to dark matter searches.

physics.class-ph↗
arXiv2025

Money as a Tensor

The proposed framework introduces a novel multidimensional representation of money using tensor analysis, enabling a more granular examination of economic interactions and capital flow. By treating money as a multidimensional entity, this approach allows for detailed tracking and modeling of sectoral, temporal, and agent-based dynamics. This enhanced perspective facilitates the design of adaptive economic policies that can effectively respond to evolving macroeconomic conditions, ensuring resilience and inclusivity in financial systems. Furthermore, the tensor-based modeling framework bridges traditional economic analyses with advanced computational techniques, offering a robust foundation for algorithmic governance and data-driven decision-making in complex economies.

q-fin.GN↗
arXiv2024

Extended Field Interactions in Poisson's Equation Revision

In the present research, a variational technique to modifying the Poisson equation is presented, expanding its modelling capabilities to include a wider range of physical processes and resonant structures. The study examines the implications of this modified equation to further develop our knowledge of electrostatic potentials and providing a nonlocal extension of Einstein's theory of gravitation, energy conversion and communication, in addition to the methodological advancements. In addition to providing insights into the dynamics of gravitational potential in systems exhibiting radial vorticity fluctuation, the paper clarifies nonlocal effects, examines longitudinal electromagnetic wave generation, and resonant phenomena in dusty plasma media.

physics.gen-ph↗
arXiv2023

Advances in Engine Efficiency: Nanomaterials, Surface Engineering, and Quantum-based Propulsion

This study explores strategies to improve engine efficiency through innovative materials, design concepts, and alternative energy sources. It highlights the use of nanomaterials and surface engineering to create hydrophobic or other types of surfaces for harnessing entropy-gradient forces. Additionally, it discusses the potential of information-burning engines and quantum-based propulsion systems. The manuscript emphasizes the multidisciplinary nature of engine research and its potential to contribute to a sustainable and efficient future.

physics.gen-ph↗
arXiv2023

From Phase Space to Non-Equilibrium Dynamics: Exploring Liouville's Theorem and its Implications

The Liouville theorem is a fundamental concept in understanding the properties of systems that adhere to Hamilton's equations. However, the traditional notion of the theorem may not always apply. Specifically, when the entropy gradient in phase space fails to reach equilibrium, the phase-space density may not have a zero time derivative, i.e., $\frac{dρ}{dt}$ may not be zero. This leads to the concept of the set of attainable states of a system forming a compressible "fluid" in phase space. This observation provides additional insights into Hamiltonian dynamics and suggests further examination in the fields of statistical physics and fluid dynamics. In fact, this finding sheds light on the limitations of the Liouville theorem and has practical applications in fields such as beam stacking, stochastic cooling, and Rabi oscillations, among others.

physics.gen-ph↗
arXiv2022

On Electromagnetic Turbulence

Combining a generalized current in the set of Maxwell's equations offers a useful framework to address the complex phenomena of electromagnetic turbulence. The fluidic-electromagnetic analogy implies that diffraction is the analog phenomenon of EM turbulence and indicates norms to design suitable plasmon circuity to control electromagnetic turbulence in stealth technology and propulsion machines.

physics.class-ph↗
arXiv2015

Effect of TTC on Satellite Orbital Mechanics

The modified dynamical equation of motions introduced in previous publication topological torsion current (TTC) [Mario J. Pinheiro (2013) 'A Variational Method in Out-of-Equilibrium Physical Systems', Scientific Reports {\bf 3}, Article number: 3454] predicts a so-far unforeseen anomalous acceleration detected in spacecrafts during close planetary flybys in retrograde direction, and a null-effect when the spacecraft approach the planet in posigrade direction.

physics.gen-ph↗
arXiv2015

Parametric resonance and particle stochastic interactions with a periodic medium

A non-markovian stochastic model shows the emergence of structures in the medium, a self-organization characterized by a relationship between particle's energy, driven frequency $ω$ and a frequency of interaction with the medium $ν$. The interaction determines its mass and this fine tuning results in an effective force given by $F_L=\hbar ω^2 n(λ)/ c$, similar to the interaction force between photons and atoms. Condition for the particle-medium resonance is determined, with relevance to detect dark matter axion-like particles and the parametric resonance as a pop-up mechanism to turn fields into particles.

physics.gen-ph↗
arXiv2015

Nuclear interaction modeled with a simple piston-gas model

A simple one-dimensional gas-piston kinetic model gives the interaction potential between two colliding heavy ions. In the frame of the classical, thermodynamical approach, the colliding heavy ions are not submitted to friction, but produces an irreversible phenomena with cause at the difference of pressure $p$ "felt" by the nucleon gas when ions collide with the target when compared with the pressure that nuclear matter exert on their boundaries when in thermodynamical equilibrium, and offers a straightforward way to calculate interacting potentials.

nucl-th↗
arXiv2015

DEF: The Physical Basis of Electromagnetic Propulsion

The very existence of the physical vacuum provides a framework to propose a general mechanism for propelling bodies through an agency of electromagnetic fields, that seat in that medium. When two sub-systems of a general closed device interact via nonlocal and retarded electromagnetic pulses, it is easily shown that they give a nonzero force, and that only tend to comply with the action-to-reaction force in the limit of instantaneous interactions. The arrangement of sub-systems provide a handy way to optimize the unbalanced EM force with the concept of impedance matching. The general properties of the differential electromagnetic force (DEF) are the following: i) it is proportional to the square of the intensity and to the angular wave frequency $ω$; ii) to the space between the sub-systems (although in a non-linear manner); iii) it is inversely proportional to the speed of interaction; iv) when the two sub-systems are out-of-phase, DEF is null. The approach is of interest to practical engineering principles of propulsion since it offers guiding principles useful to build prototypes.

physics.space-ph↗
arXiv2014

The Flyby Anomaly and the Effect of a Topological Torsion Current

A new variational technique determines the general condition of equilibrium of a rotating gravito-electromagnetic system and provides a modified dynamical equation of motion from where it emerges a so-far unforseen topological torsion current (TTC) [Mario J. Pinheiro (2013) 'A Variational Method in Out-of-Equilibrium Physical Systems', Scientific Reports {\bf 3}, Article number: 3454]. We suggest that the TTC may explain, in a simple and direct way, the anomalous acceleration detected in spacecrafts during close planetary flybys. In addition, we theorize that TTC may represent an unforeseen relationship between linear momentum and angular motion through the agency of a vector potential.

physics.space-ph↗
arXiv2012

A Variational Method in Out of Equilibrium Physical Systems

A variational principle is further developed for out of equilibrium dynamical systems by using the concept of maximum entropy. With this new formulation it is obtained a set of two first-order differential equations, revealing the same formal symplectic structure shared by classical mechanics, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics. In particular, it is obtained an extended equation of motion for a rotating dynamical system, from where it emerges a kind of topological torsion current of the form $ε_{ijk} A_j ω_k$, with $A_j$ and $ω_k$ denoting components of the vector potential (gravitational or/and electromagnetic) and $ω$ is the angular velocity of the accelerated frame. In addition, it is derived a special form of Umov-Poynting's theorem for rotating gravito-electromagnetic systems, and obtained a general condition of equilibrium for a rotating plasma. The variational method is then applied to clarify the working mechanism of some particular devices, such as the Bennett pinch and vacuum arcs, to calculate the power extraction from an hurricane, and to discuss the effect of transport angular momentum on the radiactive heating of planetary atmospheres. This development is seen to be advantageous and opens options for systematic improvements.

physics.data-an↗
arXiv2012

An Extended Dynamical Equation of Motion, Phase Dependency and Inertial Backreaction

Newton's second law has limited scope of application when transient phenomena are present. We consider a modification of Newton's second law in order to take into account a sudden change (surge) of angular momentum or linear momentum. We hypothesize that space itself resists such surges according to a kind of induction law (related to inertia); additionally, we provide further evidence of the "fluidic" nature of space itself. This "back-reaction" is quantified by the tendency of angular momentum flux threading across a surface. This quantity is mass-dependent, and bears similarity to the quantum mechanics phase shift, present in the Aharonov-Bohm and Aharonov-Casher effects. Furthermore, this provides evidence of vacuum polarization, a phenomena which is relative to local space indicating that local geometry and topology should be taken into account in any fundamental physical theory.

physics.class-ph↗
arXiv2012

Electromagnetotoroid Structures and their Hydrodynamic Analogs

We introduce the concept of an electromagnetotoroid in astrophysics, and explore its role in polar jets. This model represents the onset of Abraham's force driven by some external source, for example, the infall of gas towards a star. The Abraham's force term is analogous to the Magnus force, and thus represents the formation of electromagnetic vortex structures in the fabric of space-time. In principle, the proposed toroidal field structure can also provide force spaceship propulsion.

physics.plasm-ph↗
arXiv2011

On Newton's Third Law and its Symmetry-Breaking Effects

The law of action-reaction, considered by Ernst Mach the cornerstone of physics, is thoroughly used to derive the conservation laws of linear and angular momentum. However, the conflict between momentum conservation law and Newton's third law, on experimental and theoretical grounds, call for more attention. We give a background survey of several questions raised by the action-reaction law and, in particular, the role of the physical vacuum is shown to provide an appropriate framework to clarify the occurrence of possible violations of the action-reaction law. Then, in the framework of statistical mechanics, using a maximizing entropy procedure, we obtain an expression for the general linear momentum of a body-particle. The new approach presented here shows that Newton's third law is not verified in systems out of equilibrium due to an additional entropic gradient term present in the particle's momentum.

physics.class-ph↗