Magnetically Powered Hovercraft / Absolute Zero

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of creating a magnetically powered hovercraft for a 7th grade science fair project. The user, Ben, inquires whether magnets become stronger as they approach absolute zero and seeks methods to achieve such low temperatures. Responses clarify that absolute zero is -273 degrees Celsius, which is unattainable in a typical high school lab setting. The conversation also references superconducting magnets used in MRI scanners, which operate at temperatures close to absolute zero.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of magnetism and magnetic fields
  • Knowledge of temperature scales, specifically Celsius and Kelvin
  • Familiarity with superconductivity and its applications
  • Awareness of the limitations of high school laboratory equipment
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of superconductivity and how it relates to magnet strength
  • Explore methods for achieving low temperatures, such as liquid nitrogen cooling
  • Investigate the design and functionality of hovercrafts
  • Learn about the applications of superconducting magnets in technology, particularly in MRI machines
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students interested in physics, particularly those exploring magnetism and temperature effects, as well as educators guiding science fair projects.

EmoMusicPwnz
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Hey everybody I'm new to this website, so if I'm doing anything wrong just tell me. Also, I may ask some really stupid questions but that's just because I am 13 years old. Anyways here goes...

I'm making hovercrafts for a 7th grade science fair project. I think I'm going to make 2 air powered hovercrafts and one magnetically powered hovercraft.

About the magnetically powered hovercraft I have a question. (and if the first question is wrong skip the rest of the post)

1) Do magnets grow stronger the nearer they are to absolute zero temperature?

2) If Q#1 is true, since I've heard it's impossible to achieve absolute zero on earth, what is the easiest way to get even remotely near it? Or am I way above my head with this?

Anyways thanks.

-Ben
 
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Welcome Emo.

Sorry to tell you this, but you're way above your head with this. :smile:

Absolute zero is 273 degrees below the freezing point of water. Bear in mind that your domestic freezer might go down to 15 degrees below zero (celsius) you'll understand that getting anywhere near absolute zero is just not within the scope of a high school lab, let alone a hovercraft.

You may have got your idea from hearing about things like MRI scanners. These produce a massive magnetic field produced by superconducting magnets (AFAIK a few degrees off absolute zero).

Feel free to keep posting your ideas, most people will be willing to help as long as you stick to the guidelines! Good luck.
 
Alright thanks. I thought it would be really, really, really hard to accomplish.
Just had to check.

-Ben
 

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