Discovery Activities: Magnetic Levitation (MagLev)

Discover the history and science behind MagLev vehicles. Assemble and test a prototype car. Collect and analyze data.

Contact Information

For more information about this program, contact:

Menzel Smith-Jones
Brookhaven National Laboratory
Bldg.400C – P.O. Box 5000
Upton, NY 11973-5000
631-344-4495 (phone)
631-344-7098 (fax)
slc@bnl.gov

Discover the history and science behind MagLev vehicles. Assemble and test a prototype. Collect and analyze data.

Vocabulary

maglev, attract, repel, magnetic field, Figure of Merit (FOM)

Audience for This Program

Grades: 4-6

Program Benefits

Lesson Objectives

1) Demonstrate an understanding of magnetic North and South poles, and the scientific principle of like poles repel, opposite poles attract.

2) Discover that MagLev uses repelling magnets.

3) Work in engineering teams to complete an engineering challenge.

4) Collect and analyze data to determine the efficiency of the constructed vehicle using a Figure of Merit formula.