Quantum Levitation has dazzled millions of people via major TV networks, the TED conference live and online, and in universities and schools around the world. But we haven’t just created a sophisticated demo for audiences to view; we developed our kits to be simple-to-use and highly engaging educational tools.
You Can Experiment with Quantum Levitation
It’s time to take quantum phenomena into your own hands! We designed our mini-maglev kit for whole classrooms to be able to explore circular motion. Your students can operate the kit themselves, conducting meaningful experiments like:
- Circular motion – polar vs. cartesian coordinates
- Circular motion – constant velocity
- Harmonic motion I
- Harmonic motion II – tuneable harmonic oscillator
- Conservation of mechanical energy
- Linear momentum conservation I
- Linear momentum conservation II – plastic collisions
Each involves three straightforward steps:
1. Perform the experiment
Position the maglev track (horizontal / tilted), then lock the levitator/s on the track and prepare your smartphone camera. Record several videos of the experiment using different parameters.
2. Extract the data
Export your videos to Tracker software. Examine the recorded motion of the levitators with your students, and have them identify the relevant parameter involved (coordinates, velocity, angle, etc).
3. Analyze the data
Use Tracker, Excel, or a similar software to analyze the data you’ve collected. You can perform linear fitting, calculate energies, etc. Discuss the results with your students and enjoy a lively Q&A session about the experiment!
