5G50.60 • Temperature and Magnetism: Flux Pinning

Photo of University of Texas at Austin's Demonstration

Instructions / Notes:

• Pour the liquid nitrogen into the styrofoam container, and allow the superconducting levitator to soak in it (logo face-down) to lower its temperature. Wait until the liquid stops boiling (this may take around a minute).
• Once the liquid stops boiling, take the cooled superconductor with the provided prongs and place it over the magnetic setup (logo side up).
• The superconductor should be "locked" above it in the air. It should feel stable and resist being moved.

Concepts Conveyed:

• Flux pinning; when a superconductor is cooled to a low temperature, the flux vortices within it are prevented from moving. The magnetic field lines will focus on impurities in the superconductor's crystal structure and be trapped there.

Demo Staff:

• Pick up the liquid nitrogen early or the day before the demo.
• Be sure to have proper PPE (safety gloves, safety goggles).

Last updated on April 3, 2024