Demonstration of bonding interaction by attraction and repulsion forces measurement using disc magnets

Abstract

Using a 3D-printed device, an Arduino board, and a force sensor, we measured the force interaction as a function of the distance in an apparatus-like ‘magnetic tractor beam’. This apparatus has been designed to demonstrate the nature of the chemical bond. The magnet configuration is such that the interaction follows a potential analogous to that described by Leonardo–Jones for a chemical bond. This similarity can be applied to demonstrate chemical bonds in teaching science.