Can Electromagnetic Levitation Make an Entire Apparatus Go Skyward?

  • I
  • Thread starter Willb1998
  • Start date
In summary, the article explores the concept of electromagnetic levitation as a potential method for lifting an entire apparatus into the air. It discusses the principles of electromagnetic forces and their applications in levitation technologies, highlighting existing examples like Maglev trains. The feasibility, challenges, and future possibilities of using this technology for larger-scale applications, such as lifting vehicles or structures, are examined, along with the engineering and energy considerations involved.
  • #1
Willb1998
4
1
Hi I'm new I had the idea that possibly diamagnetism, levitation and electromagnetism could be linked for example I know that a magnet can be levitated between 2 pieces of bismuth. I'm not good with math nor electricity but do you think if something being repulsed like a bismuth plate was bolted to a base with all thread over an electromagnet would the whole apparatus go skyward? Most people think of a stationary base and something like a train being levitated above. Just wondering if the whole thing would go upwards or levitate including the base.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Willb1998 said:
Hi I'm new I had the idea that possibly diamagnetism, levitation and electromagnetism could be linked for example I know that a magnet can be levitated between 2 pieces of bismuth. I'm not good with math nor electricity but do you think if something being repulsed like a bismuth plate was bolted to a base with all thread over an electromagnet would the whole apparatus go skyward? Most people think of a stationary base and something like a train being levitated above. Just wondering if the whole thing would go upwards or levitate including the base.
No. It would levitate up to the point were either a) gravity will win b) the diamagnetic force saturates.
 
  • #3
pines-demon said:
No. It would levitate up to the point were either a) gravity will win b) the diamagnetic force saturates.
Interesting at 1:16 you can see a large aluminum cylinder hopping upwards and levitating for probably half a second on its way back down.

 
  • Skeptical
Likes weirdoguy and pines-demon

FAQ: Can Electromagnetic Levitation Make an Entire Apparatus Go Skyward?

What is electromagnetic levitation?

Electromagnetic levitation is a method by which an object is suspended in the air using magnetic fields. This is achieved by counteracting the gravitational force with magnetic force, often using electromagnets or superconductors.

Can electromagnetic levitation lift an entire apparatus off the ground?

Yes, electromagnetic levitation can lift an entire apparatus off the ground, provided the magnetic forces generated are strong enough to counteract the weight of the apparatus. This typically requires a carefully designed system of electromagnets and control mechanisms to maintain stability and balance.

What are the limitations of using electromagnetic levitation for lifting large objects?

The primary limitations include the need for a significant amount of electrical power, the complexity of the control systems required to maintain stability, and the potential weight and size constraints of the electromagnets themselves. Additionally, the efficiency of the system decreases with increasing weight.

What are the practical applications of electromagnetic levitation?

Practical applications of electromagnetic levitation include maglev trains, which use this technology to reduce friction and increase speed; contactless melting and processing of metals in industrial applications; and various scientific experiments where precise control of position is required.

Are there any safety concerns associated with electromagnetic levitation?

Safety concerns primarily revolve around the strong magnetic fields generated by the system, which can interfere with electronic devices and pose risks to individuals with medical implants like pacemakers. Additionally, the high power requirements and potential for system instability may present operational hazards.

Back
Top