Question on electromagnetic repulsion

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges of creating an electromagnet that repels a permanent magnet using an iron nail, insulated copper wiring, and a 9V battery. The user experiences attraction instead of repulsion, likely due to incorrect pole connections and insufficient power from the 9V battery. Recommendations include using a 1.5 D cell battery for better current delivery and ensuring proper coil dimensions, with suggestions for using approximately 100 feet of 24-gauge copper wire to enhance the electromagnet's strength.

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  • Understanding of electromagnetism principles
  • Familiarity with electrical components, specifically batteries and wiring
  • Knowledge of wire gauge and its impact on resistance
  • Basic skills in constructing simple electrical circuits
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  • Learn about the relationship between current and magnetic field strength
  • Explore the principles of magnetic pole orientation for repulsion
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This discussion is beneficial for hobbyists, educators, and students interested in electromagnetism, as well as anyone looking to enhance their understanding of building and optimizing electromagnets for practical applications.

willynilly
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I have made a simple electromagnet with an iron nail, insulated copper wiring, and a 9v battery. My intention is to use the electromagnet to repel a small permanent magnet, but for some reason, I can only get the electromagnet to attract the permanent magnet. I figure I must have a problem with connecting the poles (S to S or N to N.)

I'm thinking maybe this is happening because the force of the permanent magnet being attracted to the nail is greater than the force of the magnetic repulsion.

Any suggestions? What can I do to get repulsion?

Thanks
 
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willynilly said:
I'm thinking maybe this is happening because the force of the permanent magnet being attracted to the nail is greater than the force of the magnetic repulsion.

An object cannot be attracted, but yet be repealed at the same time. You should have at least posted some dimensions of the magnet (length, width, mass, etc.) and the type of battery that you are using and the current that it delivers.
 
Because of the resistance of copper wires, you are much better off getting a 1.5 D cell for your power source. 24 Ga copper wire is about 38 ft per ohm, so you should use about 100 ft for your coil.
 
The permanent magnet is circular, about 1-inch diameter and about 1/4 inch thick. It's not very powerful.

The nail is 6 inches long. I have no idea how many feet of wire I used or how many coils, but the entire thing is covered.

Hopefully I have a 1.5 D cell laying around somewhere that I can try out.

Thanks for everyone's help.
 

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