Self Spinning magnet

This is a simple test I did quite by accident.

It shows as the lower magnet is moved in a slow circle the upper magnet on the curved surface spins very rapidly in the opposite direction.

Could someone explain why this is happening?

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• neos
• spin
• magnet
• lens
• curved
• surface
• counter
• rotating
• clockwise
• anticlockwise
• stumble
• stammer
• mumble
• flap

[ericsclips]

I think its just mechanical due to the shape of the lens. If the poles of most attraction are in the middle of the magnets, the shape of the lens will force a non-center portion of the magnet to be in contact with the curved surface.

As you move it around the perimeter, clockwise or anti-clockwise, the friction will cause it to spin. And it will reverse direction if you reverse your motion. I don't know if that make sense, but that's what I'm picturing in my mind.

[WaxingRadiance]

@ericsclips After posting this I had a think and spoke to a friend, he said essentially the same thing but added the spin is magnified by the gearing effect of spinning around a smaller surface area. Like the pull string of a spinning top is wound on a small diameter rod to spin a larger diameter disk.

You are right it is difficult to describe :)

[babyface2k]

Can it spin counter clockwise and clockwise?

[dramvids]

If this principle could be used to efficiently spin turbines & thus generate electricity it could be quite the boon for humanity.

[amy2x]

Cool!

[baltik007kitty]

very interesting, thank you!

[k1zm]

interesting, i could see this concept being applied to the "one magnet no bearing" bedini and reed switch style motors which have the ability to spin satellite rotor magnets, which would automate the part being done by your hand in this video.

[marthale7]

I just duplicated this using a "snake egg magnet" with a neo on my light with a magnifying lens. It only works when you move in certain directions. Why the spin? I have no idea. Not sure how it could be useful either.