UIUC Physics Lecture Demo: Electromagnetic Cannon

UIUC Physics
Lecture Demonstration
Database

Demo # 157

Electromagnetic Cannon

ID # 157

Description:

The electromagnetic cannon is basically a wire coil wrapped around a metal core. A metal ring, to be launched, is placed on the cannon. When the button is pressed, a current is sent through the coil, inducing a magnetic field. The sudden change in magnetic flux causes the ring to try and "escape" by flying off the cannon. Various metal rings are available.

Picture of Electromagnetic Cannon

Physics Concept:

Electricity and Magnetism
Electromagnetic Induction
Induced Currents and Forces

The demonstration takes about 2 minutes to perform.