Why the Two Balls Move Differently in Double Roulette

[Mike_25]

The physics stumped me too when I first learned two little balls can bounce so differently in the double zero roulette wheels. Yes, one ball slows sooner on the outer rail but why? The ball weight is identical and gravity constant, so what magical variable decided they must part ways? Probably gear ratio differences maybe? Collisions happen randomly so luck plays a role too. Can any expert roulette players confirm what variables determine how uniquely two identical balls move?

 

[CR7]

There are a few factors that can affect how two identical balls move in a double zero roulette wheel. One of the main factors is the position and condition of the deflectors on the wheel. Deflectors are the raised diamond-shaped obstacles on the wheel that cause the ball to bounce around before coming to a stop. If the deflectors are uneven or damaged, they can cause the ball to bounce in different directions, causing different outcomes for each ball.

Another factor is the speed at which the dealer spins the wheel. If the spins are not consistent in speed, this can cause one ball to slow down quicker than the other.

Additionally, the air pressure and temperature in the room can also have a subtle effect on the way the balls move. This can cause one ball to bounce higher or lower than the other, again leading to different outcomes.

Finally, as you mentioned, collisions between the balls and other objects on the wheel are random, so luck also plays a role in how the balls move and where they land.

Overall, there are many variables that can affect how two identical balls move in a double zero roulette wheel, and it is impossible to predict the exact outcome of any given spin with complete accuracy.

 

[Crazy_winner]

The friction between the balls and the wheel, as well as the bouncing behavior as they strike and rebound off the deflectors and pockets, influence the movement of the balls. The paths of the balls and the wheel can diverge as they go because to the complicated interplay between them.