A Physics Challenge


Step 1: A magnet (blue) and a plastic base is placed on a balance. The balance reads 42.5 grams.
base & 1 magnet
Step 2: A second magnet (orange) is added to the balance. The balance reads 53.5 grams.

Step 3: The second magnet (the orange one...) is now removed from the balance pan and levitated above the balance by the mutual magnetic repulsion of the two magnets.

Now, what does the scale read?

one magnet suspended over the other

When you have made your prediction, click here. (No Cheating!!)


last update November 10, 2007 by JL Stanbrough