5H40.30 • Forces on Current in Wires: Jumping Wire

Location: Floor Demo

Instructions / Notes:

• A long wire is hanging in between the poles of a horsehoe permanent magnet.
• Close the knife switch closest to the power supply one way, the wire jumps in one direction.
• Close the switch the other way, the wire jumps in the other direction.
• A second knife switch on the Faraday cart selects the option between this demonstration and two other demonstrations that induce a current into the wire.
• Turn off the power supply when the demonstration is not in use.

Photo Shows the Demonstration Apparatus Used by the University of Texas at Austin.

Magnet and knife switch shown below.

Last updated on June 8, 2026