Explore the wonders of magnets! Experiment with equilibrium, gravity and magnetic fields while building your own magnetic levitating train. This kit includes five projects: Magnetic Pendulum, Magnetic Pendulum Spacing, Balance Gravity and Magnetism, Magnetic Oscillations and Energy and Levitating Train. It also includes five experiments: Earth as a Magnet, Attraction and Repulsion, What Magnets Attract, Temporary Magnetism, and Magnetic Strength. Some parental help and guidance may be required.

Age: 10 +

What You Get

Neodymium & ceramic magnets, high-force magnetic strip, iron filings, plastic guide rails, compass, wood block, nails, activity guide.

Dimensions: The kit is fully contained in a box 26.5cm by 20.5cm by 6.5cm.

How It Works

Every magnet has a North Pole and a South Pole. The 'opposite' poles of two magnets (North and South) will attract each other, but 'like' poles (North and North or South and South) repel each other. Repulsion between magnets on the track and the underside of the train is what makes the train 'levitate' and hover over the track. Because the train is not touching the track, there is no friction to slow the train down, so it can achieve very high speeds.

Did you know?

The word 'Maglev' is an abbreviation of 'Magnetic levitation'. Maglev trains operate in several countries, including  France, Germany, Japan and China. The record for the fastest speed achieved by a Maglev train is currently 603kmph!