The phenomenon of levitation occurs due to the magnetic properties of both the permanent magnet and the superconductor. When the superconductor is cooled to a very low temperature, it becomes a perfect diamagnet, which means it repels all magnetic fields. This repulsive force between the magnet and the superconductor is what causes the levitation.
The mass of a permanent magnet levitating a superconductor depends on the strength of the magnet and the size and composition of the superconductor. In general, the mass will be small as the levitation is due to the repulsive force between the two objects and not the weight of the magnet.
The mass can be measured using a sensitive balance that can detect very small changes in weight. The superconductor is placed on the balance and the magnet is brought close to it until it begins to levitate. The weight reading on the balance at this point is the mass of the magnet levitating the superconductor.
Yes, the mass of the levitating system can be changed by altering the strength of the magnet or the size and composition of the superconductor. For example, using a larger or stronger magnet will increase the mass, while using a smaller or weaker magnet will decrease the mass.
The most common application of this phenomenon is in magnetic levitation trains, also known as maglev trains. These trains use superconducting magnets to levitate the train above the track, reducing friction and allowing for faster and smoother travel. Other applications include levitating devices for transportation, energy storage, and medical imaging.