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A well known physics experiment is dropping a magnet through a vertical aluminum

ID: 2046575 • Letter: A

Question

A well known physics experiment is dropping a magnet through a vertical aluminum tube.
The magnet slows noticably before passing completely through the tube. Electrical current is created in the aluminum tube thereby creating a magnet thereby creating an opposing magnetic flux to slow down the falling magnet.

My question is whether, theoretically, current is also induced in the magnet and/or forces are exerted on the magnet about its axis ?

Another question is whether the Right Hand Motor Rule or the Left Hand Generator Rule can be applied to this experiment ?

Explanation / Answer

The basic rule is Lenz's law. The falling magnet causes a changing magnetic flux linkage in the Aluminium tube which causes an emf and a resulting induced current. The induced current opposes the change causing it.... the falling magnet.... currents circulate around the aluminium tube to effectively try to 'repel' the falling magnet.

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