Electromagnetic Propulsion Theory

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the principles of electromagnetic propulsion and magnetic levitation, specifically addressing the interaction between a magnetized metal plate and a similarly polarized magnet. According to Earnshaw's Theorem, stable levitation cannot occur without a balancing mechanism, necessitating the arrangement of additional magnets to achieve stability. The conversation highlights practical solutions, such as using tracks to guide a levitating board, distinguishing between magnetic propulsion and magnetic levitation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Earnshaw's Theorem
  • Knowledge of magnetic polarity and interactions
  • Familiarity with magnetic levitation principles
  • Basic concepts of mechanical guidance systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research advanced magnetic levitation techniques
  • Explore the design of magnetic propulsion systems
  • Investigate the applications of magnetic levitation in transportation
  • Study the engineering of stabilizing mechanisms for levitating objects
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, engineers, and hobbyists interested in electromagnetic propulsion, magnetic levitation technologies, and their practical applications in various fields.

AEStewart23
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
If a metal plate, let's say 10 feet by 10 feet, is magnetised to a positive polarity, and a magnet that is also a positive polarity is place on the plate, will it float? and furthermore would it move across the plate if a force propelled it forward?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
earnshaw's theorem says this can't be done without some sort of balancing mechanism.

it could be done but you would need to arrange other magnets around the one you're trying to balance to get it to stay, though there would be some wobble I'm sure.

typical ways around this is to attach magnets to the underside of a board, and likewise on the floor beneath, then place the board on tracks so it can't slide off.
 
Btw, what you are describing isn't magnetic propulsion, but magnetic levitation.
 
Thread 'Colors in a plasma globe'

Thread 'Colors in a plasma globe'

I have a common plasma globe with blue streamers and orange pads at both ends. The orange light is emitted by neon and the blue light is presumably emitted by argon and xenon. Why are the streamers blue while the pads at both ends are orange? A plasma globe's electric field is strong near the central electrode, decreasing with distance, so I would not expect the orange color at both ends.
View full post »

Similar threads

What causes an electric force in one situation but not in another?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Can Electromagnetic Fields Generate Net Thrust with a Metal Plate?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Need an electromagnet to play Chess
  • · Replies 37 ·
2
Replies
37
Views
4K
Static Electricity and dc motor
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Undergrad Two ways of constructing electromagnetism, which is correct?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
Parallel magnet B-field strength
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
High School Ion Trap and Time-Varying Potentials
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
High School Would the following test be proof of a successful propulsion system?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
High School Is the Kink in the Electromagnetic Wave Responsible for Delayed Motion?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Charged Ion Beam and Electromagnetic Induction: A Neutralization Method
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K