The Physics of Dropping a Magnet Through a Copper Tube

Thread starter robhlee
Start date May 6, 2007
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Copper Magnet Physics Tube

In summary, when a magnet falls through a copper tube, it creates a changing magnetic field that induces eddy currents in the tube. These eddy currents produce a magnetic field that opposes the falling magnet, slowing its descent. The speed of the falling magnet can be affected by factors such as the strength and size of the magnet, the thickness and material of the tube, and the distance between the magnet and the tube. This slowing down of the magnet is due to the production of eddy currents, which create an opposing force. This phenomenon can be controlled by adjusting the different factors involved, and is commonly used in practical applications such as magnetic brakes and damping systems.

May 6, 2007

robhlee

Hello,

say you have a cylindrical magnet magnetized through thickness (not radially) and you drop it through a copper tube. It will slow down. Is there an opposite force on the tube? If you were to hold the tube in your hand and drop the magnet inside, would the tube feel heavier?

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May 6, 2007

Meir Achuz

Science Advisor

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Yes...

May 6, 2007

robhlee

just wanted to make sure, thanks...........................................

1. How does a magnet fall through a copper tube?

When a magnet is dropped through a copper tube, it creates a changing magnetic field. This changing magnetic field induces eddy currents in the copper tube, which in turn produce a magnetic field that opposes the falling magnet. This opposing magnetic field exerts a force on the magnet, slowing its descent.

2. What factors affect the speed of the falling magnet?

The speed at which a magnet falls through a copper tube depends on several factors, such as the strength and size of the magnet, the thickness and material of the copper tube, and the distance between the magnet and the tube. The shape of the magnet can also affect its speed, as a longer magnet will experience more resistance from the eddy currents compared to a shorter magnet.

3. Why does the magnet slow down as it falls?

The magnet slows down due to the production of eddy currents in the copper tube. These eddy currents create a magnetic field that opposes the falling magnet, exerting a force in the opposite direction. This force increases as the speed of the magnet increases, eventually reaching a point where it balances out the force of gravity and the magnet stops accelerating.

4. Can the falling speed of the magnet be controlled?

Yes, the falling speed of the magnet can be controlled by changing the strength and size of the magnet, the thickness and material of the copper tube, and the distance between the magnet and the tube. By adjusting these factors, the amount of resistance from the eddy currents can be increased or decreased, affecting the speed of the falling magnet.

5. Is the phenomenon of a falling magnet through a copper tube a practical application of physics?

Yes, this phenomenon is a practical application of physics and is commonly used in magnetic brakes and damping systems. By using the opposing magnetic fields, the speed and motion of objects can be controlled and slowed down, making this principle useful in many industrial and engineering applications.