5k20.30: THOMPSON'S COIL

PURPOSE: A number of demonstrations involving concepts in magnetic induction.

DESCRIPTION: Several induction experiments are possible with this device:

(1) JUMPING RINGS: Placing a ring over the extended primary coil core and switching it on causes the ring to jump. Cool the ring in liquid nitrogen to get a really great jump. Broken metal rings and wooden rings are unaffected.

(2) RESISTIVE HEATING: Verify that there is resistive heating in the secondary ring by having a student hold it down until it gets too hot to touch!

(3) A light bulb on a small coil lights up when the coil is moved over the extended core.

Talk about magnetic levitation and MAGLEV trains after doing this experiment.

SUGGESTIONS:

EQUIPMENT: Thomson's coil with accessories.

SETUP TIME: 15 min.