Rotating Magnetic Rings: Can Inner Ring Rotate?

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    Magnetic Ring Rotating
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the possibility of an inner magnetic ring rotating when placed within a fixed outer magnetic ring, both equipped with magnets facing each other. The scope includes theoretical considerations of magnetic interactions and stability in a mechanical setup.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the inner ring could rotate if given an initial push, drawing a parallel to maglev trains.
  • Another participant notes that the rings might be prone to misalignment and would require a stabilizing mechanism to maintain their orientation.
  • It is proposed that the inner ring would naturally orient itself to maximize the distance between opposing magnetic poles, potentially leading to oscillations rather than continuous rotation.
  • A later reply mentions that both types of maglev technology require an input power source to function, implying that similar mechanisms might be needed for the rotating rings.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the inner ring would rotate on its own or require external input. There is no consensus on the feasibility of the setup or the stability of the rings.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge potential challenges in creating a stable system, including the need for a stabilizing mechanism and the effects of overlapping magnetic fields.

apkrishna1963
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large number of magnets attached to a fixed non magnetic circular ring. Another non magnetic smaller radius ring with equal number of magnets is taken. Here magnets are attached such a way that like polls of the magnets of bigger and smaller rings are facing each other. Due to repulsive force is there a possibility of inner ring begin to rotate? Please explain.
 
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I'd guess the inner ring would rotate (if it was given a nudge to start it going). Like how a maglev train works.
Although due to the set-up, your rings might be more likely to fall out of plane with each other, so there would probably need to be some kind of stabilising mechanism.
Also, I reckon the rings would be less stable if they were small, since the magnetic fields of different parts of the ring would overlap.
 
I guess its possible, but would be tricky to make...
 
The inner ring would tend to orient itself so it's magnets were between the outer magnets to maximize the distance between opposing poles. There might be some oscillation until it stablized, but it wouldn't rotate on it's own.

Regarding a maglev train, it's effectively rotating all the inner or outer magnets. There are two basic types of techonology used. Both need an input power source (the engines) in order to accomplish this.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maglev_(transport)#Technology
 
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