How do metal balls induce stability in a tetrahedral magnet arrangement?

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In summary: This allows the magnetic field lines to have more curvature and thus be more spread out and thus exert less force on each other.In summary, the conversation discusses the arrangement of six regular N/S rod magnets in a tetrahedron shape. While it is difficult to achieve due to magnetic forces, the addition of plain metal balls to each vertex stabilizes the structure by inducing magnetism into the balls. This is because the bearings provide separation between the poles of the magnets, allowing for the magnetic field lines to have more curvature and exert less force on each other. This phenomenon can also be explained as the leftover N pole of the magnet being attracted to the steel ball, creating a more gentle force between the magnets.
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gillsimo
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Hi...take six regular N/S rod magnets and arrange them as a tetrahedron.
It's fiddly to achieve...because it can't actually be done in terms of magnetic attraction/repulsion.
Each of the four vertices have 3 poles meeting & in each case the situation in one whereby one pole is attracted to the other two but the other two are not attracted to each other.
What intrigues is that one can add a plain metal ball to each of the vertices & each immediately becomes stable, all three poles now attracted to each other.
Might somebody please explain to me what is happening in terms of the magnetism induced into the balls to make this happen?
Many thanks
 
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  • #2
I don't know for sure but:

notice how the bearings provide separation between the poles in the magnetic bars.
The +-+ poles aren't in direct contact as they would be without the bars.
This allows the bending of the magnetic lines of force to sort themselves out over a slightly longer distance through the body of the bearing.

Lines of force being far apart and smooth-of-curvature is an indication of more gentle forces.

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One way to think about it: Say it's NNS. The N-S field lines flow through the ball. The "leftover" N now sees steel which it attracts like a magnet usually does to steel. They attract.

Another way: In your tetrahedron the magnets are not as close as they would be without the balls.
 

1. What is a tetrahedral structure?

A tetrahedral structure is a geometric shape composed of four equilateral triangles, with each triangle sharing a common vertex. It is commonly seen in molecules and crystals.

2. How does magnetism work in a tetrahedral structure?

In a tetrahedral structure, the magnetic moments of the atoms or molecules are arranged in a specific way, resulting in a net magnetic moment. This arrangement can lead to unique magnetic properties, such as ferromagnetism or antiferromagnetism.

3. What are the applications of magnetism in a tetrahedral structure?

Magnetism in a tetrahedral structure has various applications in fields such as materials science, electronics, and data storage. It can also play a crucial role in understanding the magnetic properties of certain minerals and compounds.

4. Can the magnetic properties of a tetrahedral structure be manipulated?

Yes, the magnetic properties of a tetrahedral structure can be manipulated through various methods, such as applying an external magnetic field or changing the temperature. This can result in changes in the magnetic ordering and behavior of the structure.

5. How does magnetism in a tetrahedral structure differ from other structures?

Magnetism in a tetrahedral structure is unique because of its specific arrangement of magnetic moments. This can lead to different magnetic properties and behaviors compared to other structures, such as cubic or hexagonal structures.

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