Magnetic levitation: a physical tool to measure the density of unknown diamagnetic materials

Abstract

Here, we propose the use of magnetic levitation (MagLev) device, as a simple, cheap, and portable experimental technique to measure the density of diamagnetic materials in laboratory settings. We highlight the basics of a standard MagLev system for measuring the density of unknown diamagnetic materials/objects using permanent magnets, paramagnetic solution, and standard density particles. The practical MagLev system enables students to separate and analyse materials based on their density differences both qualitatively and quantitatively. One of the significant advantages of the presented experimental set up is that it is small and fits on conventional laboratory benches, need no power or any other measuring tools, and enables students to measure the density of various diamagnetic materials. We suggest such practical and affordable analytical tool can improve instructional and experimental significance in physics or chemistry laboratories or, to a much extent, in basic sciences classes.