2. A magnetic levitation or maglev train rides rails without touching them. Explain how this works using your data.

Distance from surface (cm) Number of lines/0.5 cm Average number of lines/0.5 cm Field density
(number of lines/cm)
Side 1 Side 2
0.5 6 6 12 12
1.0 10 10 20 10
1.5 13 13 26 9
2.0 15 15 30 8
2.5 16 16 32 7
3.0 16 16 32 6
3.5 17 17 34 5
4.0 17 17 34 5
4.5 18 18 36 4
5.0 18 18 36 4

To understand how a maglev train works, we can look at the provided data, which includes measurements of the number of magnetic lines and the distance from the surface.

The column "Number of lines/0.5 cm" represents the number of magnetic lines counted within a half-centimeter distance from the surface on both sides of the track. This is an important measure because it indicates the strength of the magnetic field generated by the track.

The column "Average number of lines/0.5 cm" is the average of the numbers obtained from both sides of the track. This is important because it gives us a more accurate representation of the magnetic field strength, eliminating any possible variations between the two sides.

Lastly, the column "Field density (number of lines/cm)" calculates the magnetic field density by doubling the average number of lines per half-centimeter and expressing it as lines per centimeter. This measurement is crucial because it shows how concentrated the magnetic field is around the track.

To explain how a maglev train works, it utilizes magnetic levitation, which means it uses powerful magnetic fields to lift the train above the ground. The track is designed with a series of electromagnets that create a magnetic field.

Based on the data provided, we can observe that as the distance from the surface increases, the number of magnetic lines counted decreases. This indicates that the magnetic field density decreases as you move away from the track.

The principle behind maglev trains is that magnetic repulsion and attraction forces are at play. The train itself is equipped with magnets that have the same polarity as the magnets in the track. Hence, they repel each other, causing the train to levitate above the track.

The magnetic field generated by the track is strong enough to overcome the gravitational force and lift the train. Since the train is not in direct contact with the track, there is minimal friction, which allows it to achieve high speeds and a smoother ride.

So, in summary, a maglev train works through the use of powerful electromagnets that generate a magnetic field on the track, and magnets on the train that repel the track's magnets, causing the train to levitate above the track and ride without touching it.