Investigating the Relationship Between the Velocity of a Falling Permanent Magnet and the Peak Induced Current in a Copper Coil

This investigation explores how the height of a free-falling permanent magnet affects the peak induced current in a 400-turn copper coil, testing the relationship between velocity and electromagnetic induction.

Using a controlled experimental setup with a neodymium magnet and a multimeter, the student collected data across multiple heights to derive velocity. The study employs Faraday’s Law and Ohm’s Law to model the expected linear relationship.

Results demonstrate a strong positive correlation between velocity and peak current. The paper features a rigorous error analysis, distinguishing between systematic and random errors, and provides a critical evaluation of apparatus limitations, such as multimeter sampling frequency and mechanical constraints.