Physics Demo Number: 177

Approximate

Run Time: 5min
Magnetic Domains Overhead Projector Device

Demo Description

 An overhead projector covered platform providing captured spin pivots for multiple magnetic compass needles is used.

By bringing various magnets or magnetized materials near the device, one can get various subsets of the needles to change their alignments as a group.

 

Scientific Principles


  Magnetized materials can exhibit collective behavior and changes in behavior for various subsets of  the materials in response to changing external magnetic fields.

Equipment

  •     Special apparatus for use on overhead or document camera stage.

 

Equipment Location

  •     Kit (177)  on [B-2-6]
 


 

Instructions

  

The device is shown in the photo. Moving a bar magnet near the surface will cause the various captive compass needles to spin around in such a way that various subsets of the whole group will align differently from other subsets of the group.
Writeup created by David A. Burba

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