Understanding the Induction of EMF in a Copper Tube by a Falling Magnet

In summary, when a magnet is dropped through a long copper tube, an EMF is induced due to the cutting of magnetic flux lines. According to Flemming's left hand rule, the force acts downwards when the south end of the magnet is at the bottom and the magnetic field lines point downwards. When half the magnet is in the coil and half is not, the EMF is at a maximum, but when the magnet is fully in the tube, no EMF is induced. However, experiments show that a magnet takes longer to fall through the tube than a non-magnetic item, suggesting that some EMF is still induced. The induced voltage is greater when the magnet falls through the other end as it is moving faster, leading to a
  • #1
jsmith613
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Homework Statement


If I drop a magnet through a long tube of copper how would the EMF vary with time?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


When the magnet enters the copper tube some of the magnetic flux lines are being cut hence an EMF is induced in the copper coil
If we look at flemmings left hand rule how does this work. We have a force downward and let's say the south end of the magnet is at the bottom, the magnetic field lines point downwards. So where does the force act?

Now when half the magnet is in the coil and half not apparently the EMF is at a maximum, why?

Also, apparently, when the magnet is in the tube no EMF is induced. BUT when we carry out experiments it would suggest this is NOT true as it takes longer for a magnet to fall through the tube than a non-magnetic item (by a significant amount of time!). What is the real answer?

I do know that the induced voltage would be greater when the magnet falls through the other end as its moving faster so the rate of change of flux linkage is greater hence EMF induced is greater

Could someone please help fill in the gaps and possible either walk me through what happens or tell me what happens

Thanks :)
 
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  • #2

1. How does a magnet in a copper tube work?

The copper tube acts as a conductor, allowing electrons to move freely. When a magnet is dropped through the tube, it creates a changing magnetic field which induces electrical currents in the copper, creating an opposing magnetic field. This opposing field slows down the magnet's descent, making it appear as though the magnet is levitating or falling slowly.

2. What is the purpose of the copper tube?

The copper tube serves as a conductor for the electrical currents induced by the changing magnetic field of the magnet. It also helps to focus and strengthen the opposing magnetic field, creating a stronger effect on the magnet's descent.

3. Can the magnet in a copper tube experiment be done with other materials?

Yes, this experiment can also be done with aluminum or other non-ferromagnetic metals. However, copper is often preferred due to its high conductivity and ability to create a strong opposing magnetic field.

4. Is there a limit to the size of the magnet and copper tube used in this experiment?

There is no specific limit, but the size of the magnet and tube should be proportional to each other. A larger magnet will require a larger tube to create a strong enough opposing magnetic field to slow its descent.

5. What other factors can affect the results of the magnet in a copper tube experiment?

The strength and polarity of the magnet, the thickness and purity of the copper tube, and the speed at which the magnet is dropped can all affect the results of this experiment. It is important to keep these factors consistent for accurate and repeatable results.

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