How does this train work? (vid)

[Daniel0099]

Can someone briefly describe to me how this works? I am making my own for a physics project and have to do a report with it. What is this an application of / What should I go over in the report, I originally found this when doing a project on Maglev trains but i don't know if it is a similar concept.

Thanks.

 

[davenn]

I saw a thread on that same thing on here within the last couple of months approx.

did some quick searches .. couldn't find what I was after ... some one else may remember the thread

 

[DrStupid]

Can someone briefly describe to me how this works?

Yes, e.g. with a moving magnet under the table.

 

[DaveC426913]

Yes, e.g. with a moving magnet under the table.

Is it your contention that this is a trick?

 

[davenn]

Is it your contention that this is a trick?

Agree with you Dave

It is a valid video ... I still cannot find the other thread :(

 

[Bandersnatch]

Tentative attempt at rudimentary explanation I wouldn't vouch for with my head:

Magnets are typically coated in conductive metal, like nickel, for extended durability. Even if themselves not conductive, their metallic coating will conduct electricity from the battery to the copper coil. The current will flow between + an - through the coil, creating a magnetic field in the process:

The induced magnetic field will interact with the field of the magnets, propelling the "train" forward.

 

[Doug Huffman]

The dup was deleted, with my explanation. The magnets act as conducting contacts with the bare wire coil. The very clever gadget is a linear motor.

 

[NascentOxygen]

The solenoid needs to be bare copper wire, not enamelled, so as the magnets rub along the copper some current flows through that short section of the coil. The ingenuity of some people knows no bounds. :)

Make sure the turns are not each touching, or the current will short out and not go the full distance around each turn. I expect the solenoid after winding will expand a bit, like a spring, so shorted turns should not be a problem.

 

[DrStupid]

Is it your contention that this is a trick?

Yes. The circle would be a Perpetuum mobile.

 

[Orodruin]

Yes. The circle would be a Perpetuum mobile.

It would not, it is propelled by the energy stored in the battery. When the battery is discharged, it will not work any more.

 

[DrStupid]

it is propelled by the energy stored in the battery

That sounds reasonable.