Need explanation about magnetic forces

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the explanation of magnetic forces, particularly in the context of a video demonstrating a magnet being propelled through a coil. Participants explore the underlying mechanisms of this phenomenon, including the roles of magnetic fields and electrical currents.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks clarification on the force propelling the magnet through the coil, expressing dissatisfaction with the application of Fleming's rules.
  • Another participant explains that the conductive coating on magnets allows for current flow, which creates a magnetic field that interacts with the permanent magnets to propel the assembly.
  • A participant notes that the motor in the car limits current due to its design, while the solenoid can handle more current directly, suggesting this affects the efficiency of the propulsion.
  • Some participants discuss the nature of the car, with one suggesting it is wind-up and another confirming that no magnetic field or batteries are involved in its operation, focusing instead on the battery and magnets in the coil example.
  • A participant acknowledges the explanation provided about the magnetic field and notes that an initial nudge is necessary to start the mechanism.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of the car's propulsion mechanism, with some asserting it is wind-up while others clarify the absence of batteries and magnetic fields in that context. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of the forces at play in the original video.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the properties of the materials involved, such as the conductivity of the magnet's coating and the efficiency of the propulsion mechanisms discussed. The exact relationship between the current, magnetic fields, and the forces experienced is not fully explored.

unplebeian
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Hi,

I saw this video and I can't explain why the magnet is propelled to the end of the coil with such a huge force. Can someone explain it in clear terms. I also tried to use Flemings left hand (or right hand) rule but it did not give me a satisfactory answer.



Thanks,
SM
 
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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 + and - through the coil, creating a magnetic field in the process:
electricity-navy-basics-97-jpg.jpg

The induced magnetic field will interact with the permanent magnets, propelling the battery assembly forward.
 
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unplebeian said:
with such a huge force.
Well, the car has the whole of its motor on board and needs to get power via the braid 'brushes' (contacts). That limits the current available to the motor. The magnet (solenoid) is much less subtle; it can have very fat wire for its coils and be supplied with a lot of current without the problem of brushes. Also the force is applied direct to the magnet and no gears / transmission system is there to affect the efficiency. It is, perhaps, not a fair fight. :smile:
 
Some batteries can deliver quite a lot of power into a low resistance load.
 
I think the car is wind-up (aka clockwork)?
 
CWatters said:
I think the car is wind-up (aka clockwork)?

yes ... there is no magnetic field or batteries involved in the car ... you can see him winding up the spring
at around 2 min20sec

just the battery and magnets in the copper tube example
and @Bandersnatch has explained how that works
 
Bandersnatch said:
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 + and - through the coil, creating a magnetic field in the process:
View attachment 205415
The induced magnetic field will interact with the permanent magnets, propelling the battery assembly forward.
Thanks. That makes a lot of sense and also explains why an initial nudge is required to start the mechanism that propels the magnet all the way to the other end.
 

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