Simulates the lift caused by electromagnets in maglev tracks.
To try this
simulation:
Click the up button to raise the maglev car higher. Click the down button to lower the maglev car. If the car cannot clear the height of the block on the track, it will stop.
What's Going On?
This track is based upon the principles of magnetic levitation and magnetic repulsion. Each magnet has a North and South pole. Like magnetic poles repel and unlike poles attract. On the track, all the magnets have the same pole facing upwards. The magnets in the car are placed so that the same pole is facing outward as is facing upward in the track. Magnetic repulsion occurs and the car "floats" on the magnetic field. As you push the car closer to the track the magnetic force will seems to get stronger as the two like poles get closer. The strength of the magnets (how strongly they repel each other) determine the load that the car can carry.
There's More!
Transportation companies are researching Magnetic Levitation as a means for moving people and freight. With normal modes of transportation the friction in the wheels and bearings slows the vehicle down. Magnetic levitation reduces the friction to a minimum. Magnetic repulsion can also provide the force to make the vehicle move forward.
