UIUC Physics
Lecture Demonstration
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Demo # 396
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Superconductor and Small Magnet (Levitation)
Description:
Liquid nitrogen is used in this demonstration to achieve the necessary low temperature. A superconducting material, usually yttrium-barium-copper oxide, is placed in an insulating container (bottom of a Styrofoam cup) filled with liquid nitrogen and allowed to cool. A magnet (usually neodymium-iron-boron) is then "levitated" above the superconductive material. The current induced in the superconductor repels the magnet, therefore levitating the magnet.
Physics Concept:
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Electric Fields and Potential
- Electric Field
The demonstration takes about 1 minute to perform.