 Fore-aft symmetry of a sedimenting-sphere encounter

For a smooth passing encounter of a force-driven sphere with a fixed sphere, isotropy and reflection symmetry imply $\mathbf{U}=[m_{\perp }(R)I+(m_{\parallel }(R)-m_{\perp }(R))\mathbf{nn}]\mathbf{F}$. Along a force axis $X$, $U_X$ is even and the transverse velocity is odd in $X$. Uniqueness then makes the trajectory fore-aft symmetric and restores the incoming impact parameter downstream. This consequence of kinematic reversibility of Stokes flow remains valid with lubrication resistance, provided the particles remain smooth, noncontacting and subject only to the stated forces. Surface roughness and contact can invalidate these assumptions.