This discussion explores the hypothetical scenario of two cars equipped with large electromagnets with like poles (e.g., both north) and whether they would repel each other when accelerated toward one another. It concludes that while it is theoretically possible for a sufficiently strong magnetic field to prevent collisions, practical challenges exist in generating and fitting such powerful magnets in cars. The discussion highlights the need for strong magnets, such as neodymium, and emphasizes the importance of aligning the magnetic poles on the car surfaces to achieve the desired effect.
PREREQUISITESPhysics enthusiasts, automotive engineers, and anyone interested in the theoretical applications of electromagnetism in vehicle safety and collision prevention.
denjay said:How 'large' are we talking here? Hypothetically you could get magnets powerful enough to prevent two cars moving toward each other from crashing.
Practicality-wise, it would take a pretty large amount of power to produce a field strong enough to actually stop them. I'm sure there exists something strong enough but fitting it on/in the car might be the problem.
Chemicist said:Yeah I wasn't necessarily talking about this being a possibility - just wanted to know IF a magnetic field could theoretically become powerful enough to stop cars from colliding.