What needs to be the relation between the two forces to cause the upper magnet to float without moving?
Physics · Middle School · Wed Jan 13 2021
Answered on
For the upper magnet to float without moving, the gravitational force pulling it downward must be balanced by the magnetic force pushing it upward. The key relationship is that the magnetic force must be equal in magnitude but opposite in direction to the gravitational force. This condition is achieved when the weight of the upper magnet (acting downward) is counteracted by the magnetic repulsion (acting upward) from the lower magnet.
In mathematical terms:
Magnetic Force=Weight of the Magnet
The magnets are positioned in a way that the repulsive magnetic force between them balances the gravitational force, leading to a stable equilibrium where the upper magnet appears to float in midair.