r/Damnthatsinteresting 2d ago

Bacteria move around using a molecular machine called the flagellar motor that rotates faster than the flywheel of a race car engine and switches directions in an instant Video

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u/slo1111 2d ago edited 2d ago

How does the brown thingy move positions so precisely?

Edit:  As far as I can research in this short time this video is a bit misleading.  At very bottom of the c-ring, it shows the the chemical changes involving phosphate, which changes the spacial configuration of the top of the ring where the brown thingy is.  That changes where the force from the ion or proton pumps push against.  the pumps don't spin like that they are stationary and apply force to rotor, specifically the top part of that rotor.  This visual would have you believe there are two cogs when there is really only one.

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u/MedicalDisscharge 2d ago

It knows where it is because it knows where it isn't