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The
Physics of Magnetic Levitation
Physics 212X Spring 2011
John Dutton
04/12/2011
What
is
Magnetic
Levitation?
One of the
most astounding applications of magnets is magnetic levitation.
Levitation occurs when you have the proper magnetic fields interacting
underneath an object and you achieve flotation. This is the same
repulsion you feel when you try to place the same side of two magnets
together.
http://www.school-for-champions.com/science/images/magnetism-repulsion.gif
An
application
of this repulsive effect is with Maglev Trains. MagLev
is short for magnetic levitation. These MagLev trains are becoming more
and more popular as a means of transportation. They have the potential
for extremely high speeds while maintaining a smooth and reasonably
priced ride. They do this by eliminating wheel friction which is a type
of energy loss that all wheeled vehicles face.
http://www.wondertravel.net/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/maglev-train-suspendu-magnetique9.jpg
The future of MagLev technology definitely will not
end with trains. There are things that are being designed today that
utilize this physical property. Take this Flying Bike concept as an
example.
http://psipunk.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/flying-bike-concept-01.jpg
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