SIR Physics Investigation Abstract
ELECTROMAGNETIC PROPULSION: USING ELECTRICITY TO FLY
Presenters:
David A. Crow, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506; maddogg@imsa.edu
Kurt N. Hohenberger, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506; kurt@imsa.edu
Jonathan A. Waterlander, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506; jaw32@imsa.edu
Advisor:
Mr. Branson Lawrence, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 Sullivan Road, Physics, Aurora, IL, 60506; 630-907-5047; branson@imsa.edu
Abstract:
Our project utilized the fact that the earth has a natural electromagnetic field and we created a "lifte" that rises off the ground using only electricity. This "lifter" consists of a lightweight balsa frame with aluminum foil and copper wire forming two poles that allow it to act as an electromagnet. The goal of this technology is to efficiently produce lift without any moving parts. Such technology would be useful in creating vehicles capable of floating just above the ground. It can also be used to propel objects into space. However, this is not a feasible idea, as it requires a great deal of power to lift a very small amount of mass. In our testing, two computer monitors, producing about 40kV total, were required to lift 3.5g. This shows that simple closed systems are unable to produce the necessary power to lift themselves. However, this technology is not useless. NASA is currently testing a similar system to determine if lightweight materials can be used to create generators capable of producing enough power to overcome their own mass. If such a generator can be made, it would revolutionize how we travel on earth and in space.