Someone please explain this physics concept

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics phenomenon involving the interaction between a magnet and a non-magnetized metal pole, specifically focusing on the differing behaviors of a marker and a magnet when dropped through the pole.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are considering the reasons for the observed differences in behavior between the magnet and the marker, questioning the nature of magnetic fields and their effects on non-ferrous metals. Some participants suggest exploring the concept of magnetic braking and the implications of the magnet's motion through the pole.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their thoughts and hypotheses. There is an indication that some guidance has been offered regarding further research into magnetic brakes, though no consensus has been reached on the specific explanations for the phenomenon.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the constraints of a homework assignment, which may influence the depth of their inquiries and the nature of their responses.

eddy10188
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My teacher had a long metal pole (I believe it was aluminum) and said that it was NOT magnetized. He put a magnet up to the side of the pole and it did not stick, and he dropped a marker through the top of the pole and the marker came out the bottom at a normal rate. However, when he took a magnet and dropped it through the top of the pole, it took a long time for it to come out, maybe 10 seconds. Then it just slipped out the bottom.

Some one please explain this phenomenon, thanks!
 
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Welcome to the PF.

Sounds like this may be part of your assignment, to figure out why there is a difference. What are your thoughts? Why would there be a difference between holding the magnet stationary against the non-ferrous metal, versus sliding it along next to the metal?
 
berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF.

Sounds like this may be part of your assignment, to figure out why there is a difference. What are your thoughts? Why would there be a difference between holding the magnet stationary against the non-ferrous metal, versus sliding it along next to the metal?

Oh sorry I should have explained..

The only thing I can really think of is that it that the magnet might be trying to set up a magnetic field inside of the pole. It also could be that the pole has a much smaller area for the magnet to go through so it is experiencing the effects of its own field but then again I am not sure that is true..
 
eddy10188 said:
Oh sorry I should have explained..

The only thing I can really think of is that it that the magnet might be trying to set up a magnetic field inside of the pole. It also could be that the pole has a much smaller area for the magnet to go through so it is experiencing the effects of its own field but then again I am not sure that is true..

Boy, it's hard to give a hint on this question without giving the answer away.

I'll try this, but it may still be too much. Use Google or Wikipedia.org to learn how magnetic brakes work...
 

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