Current Balance

Demonstrate and measure the small force experience by a conductor carrying an electric current in a magnetic field. Half of the balance is placed inside a solenoid while the other half has an adjustable counterweight and can carry light masses. When current is supplied to the balance and the solenoid from an external power supply, the balance deflects. Adding light masses until balance is restored allows the force on the conductor to be measured.

Specifications

• Balance: 9-7/16 in. x 2-9/16 in. x 1/8 in. (240 mm x 65 mm x 3 mm)
• Base: 3-7/16 in. x 3-7/16 in. x 1-3/8 in. (87 mm x 87 mm x 35 mm)
• Includes activity guide