Introduction
In this experiment, we will be determining the effect of magnetic levitation on friction and whether magnetic levitation reduces friction, and we will also be studying how magnetic force could be applied to train technology.
Aim
To study the effect of magnetic levitation on friction and to determine how magnetic force can be applied to train technology.
Theory
1. The method through which an object is suspended without any support other than a magnetic field is termed Magnetic Levitation.
2. The magnetic field used counteracts the gravitational force effect and other forces.
3. The two main issues involved in magnetic levitation are lifting force and stability. Levitating Force provides an uplift force to counteract gravity, whereas stability protects the system from sliding.
4. Magnetic levitation train or Maglev is a train transportation that uses two sets of magnets. In the absence of friction, one of these makes the train move ahead, and another repels and pushes the train up off the track.
A Magnetic Levitation Train
Requirements
1. Board
3. Magnetic Side Rails
4. 19 Neodymium Magnets
Procedure
Step 1: Prepare a magnetic track laid with a ceramic magnet and bordered by magnetic side rails, along with a conventional track.
Step 2: Place this on the board.
Step 3: Glue three neodymium magnets to each side panel to make a maglev train.
Step 4: To provide enough repelling magnetic force for levitating on the track, place 16 neodymium magnets on the base.
Step 5: Now, tilt the track at three different heights.
Step 6: Measure the time taken in seconds by the train to reach the other end.
Observation
From our experiment, we observed that at all three heights, the conventional train traveled faster than the maglev as it had less friction.
Result
1. As the conventional train has less friction and travels faster than the maglev, our hypothesis has been proved wrong.
2. If we had doubled the magnetic stripe, the magnetic levitation train could go faster.
3. If we used the longer track, then it could possibly build more momentum, or if we used a force to propel the train, then it could help in decreasing friction.
4. In today’s technologically advanced world, magnetic levitation trains have practical applications as they slide over magnetically charged tracks at a very high speed, and because of the absence of friction, it has less wear and tear.
5. If we look at the down-aspect of this train, then we would find that the magnetic waves are very harmful to live beings.
Precautions
1. Measure the timing with the help of a stopwatch.
2. Start the stopwatch just after the train leaves for the endpoint.
3. Place the magnets perfectly in their position.
Conclusion
In this experiment, using the magnetic force, we levitated a train and compared it to conventional trains to compare their speed. We have also seen different ways of reducing friction which can increase the speed of the maglev.
VIVA Questions With Answers
Q.1 What was the aim of your experiment?
ANS. To study the effect of magnetic levitation on friction and to determine how magnetic force can be applied to train technology.
Q.2 What do you understand about magnetic levitation?
ANS. The method through which an object is suspended without any support other than a magnetic field is termed Magnetic Levitation. This magnetic force counteracts the gravitational force and other forces.
Q.3 What is the result of your experiment?
ANS. In our experiment, we found that the conventional train traveled faster than the maglev as it had less friction.
Q.4 How can you increase the speed of a magnetic levitation train?
ANS. The two possibilities using which we could increase the speed of maglev train ;
1. If we used the longer track, then it could possibly build more momentum.
2. If we used a force to propel the train, then it could help in decreasing friction.
Q.5 What is the downside of magnetic levitation trains?
ANS. The downside of magnetic levitation trains is that the magnetic waves emitted by them are very harmful to living beings.
Saquib Siddiqui is a Mechanical Engineer with expertise in science projects and experiments. Saquib’s work focuses on integrating scientific concepts with practical applications, making complex ideas accessible and exciting for learners of all ages. In addition to his practical work, Saquib has authored several articles, research papers, and educational materials.
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