Uncovering the Mystery of Thompson's Flying Ring

In summary, the flying ring demonstration involves an oscillating magnetic field that induces an emf and current in the aluminum ring, causing it to be thrown upward due to the upward force exerted by the magnetic field. The horizontal component of the magnetic field and the lighter weight of aluminum compared to copper contribute to the ring flying higher.
  • #1
skyliner34
9
0
Can anyone explain how flying ring works?
like the demostration whith a magnetic coil connected to AC poer and an aluminum ring. the ring was placed on the top of the coil and althought aluminum is a non magnetic, the ring was thrown to the ceiling.
can anyone tell me why there was force on the ring
and
why the ring went up?
juz like this

WWW.physics.montana.edu/demonstrati...tyandmagnetism/demos/thompsonsflyingring.html
 
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  • #2
The oscillating magnetic field induces an emf and thus a current in the ring.
The magnetic field exerts an upward force on the currentin the ring.
 
  • #3
pam said:
The oscillating magnetic field induces an emf and thus a current in the ring.
The magnetic field exerts an upward force on the currentin the ring.

can u show me by darwing th diagram?
cuz i m not quiet get how it works
thanks for helping
 
  • #4
I'll try to describe it in words. The magnetic field is mostly upward but it weakens as it gets higher, which leads a slight horizontal component to the field lines.
The oscillating B field induces current in the horizontal plane of the ring.
The horizontal component of B exerts an upward force on the current in the ring.
 
  • #5
one more question
why a smaller aluminum ring will fly higher, and a copper will lower ?
 
  • #6
Aluminum is lighter.
 

Related to Uncovering the Mystery of Thompson's Flying Ring

1. What is Thompson's Flying Ring?

Thompson's Flying Ring is a mysterious object discovered by farmer Robert Thompson in 1885. It is a small, metallic ring that is said to have the ability to fly and move in a controlled manner without any visible propulsion system.

2. How was the Flying Ring discovered?

The Flying Ring was discovered by accident when farmer Robert Thompson found it while plowing his field in 1885. He noticed that the ring was able to fly and move in a controlled manner without any visible means of propulsion. Thompson kept the ring and passed it down to his descendants until it was eventually acquired by the Smithsonian Institution in 1961.

3. Has the Flying Ring been studied by scientists?

Yes, the Flying Ring has been studied by various scientists and experts, including the Smithsonian Institution and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). However, no conclusive explanation has been found for its flight capabilities.

4. What are some theories about the Flying Ring's flight?

Some theories suggest that the Flying Ring may have anti-gravity properties or may utilize some unknown type of energy. Others propose that it may have been a prototype for a never-before-seen flying machine. However, there is no concrete evidence to support any of these theories.

5. Is the Flying Ring still on display at the Smithsonian?

No, the Flying Ring is no longer on display at the Smithsonian. It was displayed for a short period in the 1960s but was later taken off display due to lack of interest and scientific significance. It is currently in storage at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum.

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