2007-02-15 06:10:40 · 13 answers · asked by Brian M 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Other - Science
Because their base is essentially a single point. An object with a flat base (or two legs) can be visualized as having two points of contact; these points of contact, if they are located on either side of the centre of gravity, they will supply a torque to offset sideways motion. A single point, however, cannot supply this torque, so the object will roll.
2007-02-15 06:34:46 · answer #1 · answered by computerguy103 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Since the actual amount of the surface of a round object is touching the ground, there is less friction. If you slide a book on a tile floor, it will go several feet before friction makes it stop. Secondly, there is a lot more kinetic energy built up when something round is rolled, and it has to dissipate to stop.
2007-02-15 06:14:45 · answer #2 · answered by Biskit 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
because they have less friction applied to them(less surface touches the ground) anytime a round object is on unever surface gravity tries to pull it straight down causes a unbalance distribution of weight and it will roll. if it is pushed, it's mostly just the friction and lack of edges to stop movement
2007-02-15 06:15:53 · answer #3 · answered by monarchicalabdication 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because they can't rock.
LiL EarlE
The Postal Service Rules
2007-02-15 06:13:46 · answer #4 · answered by LiL EarlE 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Inertia.
2007-02-15 06:14:06 · answer #5 · answered by Jerry P 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because there are no edges to stop them?
2007-02-15 06:13:06 · answer #6 · answered by w00t 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
buy the book called "Looking for my missing piece"
2007-02-15 06:14:27 · answer #7 · answered by DrPepper 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
beacuse they do not have an edge to stop forward momentum.
2007-02-15 06:12:54 · answer #8 · answered by colera667 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they have no flat surface or edge to keep them still.
2007-02-15 09:46:04 · answer #9 · answered by cdm_md 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The same reason squares don't!!
2007-02-15 06:13:44 · answer #10 · answered by happyflamepepper 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋