Lenz's Law kits are available through some lab suppliers and usually consist of a length of copper pipe (sometimes with a section cut out so that you may see the magnet in motion), a magnet whose diameter is just slightly smaller than that of the tube so that it may be dropped down the tube easily and a ?dummy' slug which is usually the same size and shape as the magnet but made of metal. Kits are simple to make, the only difficulty is obtaining the correct size and shaped magnets but many suppliers now stock suitable types.

Equipment typically required (per set):

• Length of copper pipe, approx 30-50cm in length or longer depending upon level of practical
• Cylindrical magnet which fits down the tube without difficulty
• A dummy slug or metal cylinder (non-ferrous)
• Tray of sand to cushion the fall of the magnet
• Stopclock (optional)

This electromagnetic braking is caused by eddy currents being induced in the copper pipe by the falling magnet. The pipe effectively acts as a one-turn coil. The resultant induced current creates a magnetic field which opposes the changes that causes it. This theory is known as Lenz's Law.

This equipment can be used as an end of term fun demonstration, for higher ability groups investigating electromagnet induction or with post-16 groups, learning about Lenz's Law itself.

If students intend to investigate the rate at which the magnet slows, they may ask for datalogging equipment including light sensors so that the duration of the drop can be accurately measured. Stopclocks provide an alternative where accuracy is not so important. Also the length of pipe may be varied to see how it affects the rate of electromagnetic braking.