Random Thoughts

[HappySkeptic]

Guys, a dumb question from an ignoramus.
We know that perpetual motion isn't a thing. Not here on earth anyway, with gravity, friction (non vacuum), etc

I just want to know what keeps the electrons spinning? Even in the darkest coldest reaches of the universe?

If they didn't, all matter in the universe would cease to exist.

Are you talking about the intrinsic electron spin of 1/2, or are you talking about them spinning around an atom?

Electrons are very long-lived, so they don't disappear.  Spin is an intrinsic property in them - it can't be lost.  As for them "orbiting" atoms, they create a quantum electron cloud because of the forces of attraction with the protons, and the energy the electrons have.  This energy can be changed only by a quantum transition (gain or loss).

So, in the quantum world, there is only discrete change, not gradual "friction" or any such thing.  Discrete transitions do occur, and they follow thermodynamic principles in the macroscopic aggregate. But, it is the requirement for "discrete" change, plus the conservation of energy, which allows the quantum world to just "be" until the next discrete event.