Teaching Magneto-Thermal Coupling Using Thomson's Levitating Ring Experiment

Abstract

The levitating ring experiment is presented as a method for teaching magneto-thermal interactions. The complete electromagnetic model of a problem is given, together with the insight in thermal analysis. The factors for determining the vertical displacements are explained, and an elegant method for indirect measurement of induced current in the ring is introduced. The whole apparatus is explained in detail so an accurate computer model can be made. Several simulation approaches are given, and all prove the applicability in teaching coupled problems using laboratory experiments and computer modeling.