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 magnetic levitation or maglev train works, we can analyze the given data that shows the relationship between the distance from the surface and the number of magnetic field lines.
First, let's focus on the "Number of lines/0.5 cm" column. It represents the number of magnetic field lines that pass through a 0.5 cm section. For example, at a distance of 0.5 cm from the surface, there are 6 lines on side 1 and 6 lines on side 2, giving a total of 12 lines. Similarly, at a distance of 1.0 cm, we have 10 lines on each side, resulting in a total of 20 lines.
Next, let's calculate the "Average number of lines/0.5 cm" column. This value represents the average of the number of field lines from both sides. For instance, at 0.5 cm, the average is 12 lines since both sides have the same number of lines, which is 6.
Now, let's look at the "Field density (number of lines/cm)" column. This value represents the number of magnetic field lines per centimeter. It is calculated by doubling the average number of lines for each 0.5 cm segment. For example, at a distance of 0.5 cm, the field density is 12 lines/cm since the average number of lines is 12. At 1.0 cm, the field density is 10 lines/cm because the average is 20 but divided by 2 segments of 0.5 cm.
By analyzing this data, we can conclude that as the distance from the surface increases, the number of magnetic field lines passing through each segment decreases. This declining field density creates a magnetic field gradient.
Maglev trains take advantage of this magnetic field gradient to levitate and move without touching the rails. They usually have powerful onboard magnets that create a strong magnetic field. This field interacts with the field generated by the track, causing repulsion between them. The repulsive force between the two magnetic fields allows the train to float above the rails.
To move the train forward, the onboard magnets are controlled to create a forward magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic field gradient on the track. By adjusting the strength and direction of the magnetic fields, the train can be propelled forward or slowed down. Since the train doesn't make direct contact with the rails, there is minimal friction, resulting in smoother and more efficient movement.
In summary, a maglev train rides rails without touching them by utilizing the repulsive force between the magnetic field generated by the train and the magnetic field gradient on the track. This electromagnetic interaction allows the train to levitate and move forward without physical contact, reducing friction and enabling high-speed and efficient transportation.