Why do pens not work on certain spots on paper?

The rough paper surface provides friction, allows the tungsten carbide ball to roll, take up ink and spread it on the paper. On a smooth or slippery surface – and this seems to be the case for the oily regions on the paper – the tip of a ballpoint pen only slides but does not roll.

Why do ballpoint pens stop writing?

Ballpoint and rollerball pens are designed to keep air out from the ink cartridge. Additionally, ballpoint pens can stop working because the ink left in the ball when unused has been exposed to air and as a result clogged. Both issues can be fixed rather easily however so you can get your pen to start working again.

How does a ballpoint pen work physics?

The concept of the pen is very simple: gravity forces the ink down into a resevior, sitting atop the thing that puts the ink on the surface, which is aptly called a ball. As the pen presses against the surface, ink flows onto the ball, which move and basically pulls the ink onto the surface.

How does a ballpoint pen work?

How Do Ballpoint Pens Work? Rather than a nib, a ballpoint pen has a small ball bearing for the ink. This ball bearing is typically made from brass, steel, or tungsten carbine. As the ball moves across paper, it turns and draws ink from the cartridge, creating a consistent ink line with a quick dry time.

How do you get a ballpoint pen to write again?

Try scribbling on the sole of a shoe or something made of rubber. A combination of the increased friction and the pen’s tip gripping more firmly to the rubber will quickly heat up the dried ink, ensuring your pen is ready to be used again.

How do you fix a stuck ballpoint pen?

Hold the tip of the pen to a flame for a few seconds to unclog the ink. Use a lighter, match, or candle to create a flame, then place just the very tip of your pen in the flame for a few seconds. In many cases, the heat will melt any gummed-up ink near the tip and get the pen working again.