Eh-8 The Meisner Effect

Aim

To demonstrate magnetic levitation due to the Meissner effect.

Apparatus

  • Samarium Cobalt Magnet
  • Ceramic Superconductor
  • Liquid Nitrogen Dewer
  • Video Camera
  • Superconductor Stand

Meisner Effect

Description

The high temperature superconductor has a transition temperature of 88° Kelvin. This temperature is considerably above that of Liquid Nitrogen (77° Kelvin). A superconductor has the property of preventing magnetic field penetration. This magnetic exclusion or Meissner effect comes about by the generation of an equal and opposite magnetic field in the superconductor. The induced field repels any outside field so a light magnet will float or levitate on this field.

Video

Safety Notes

The Meisner Effect SOP-42