Hypothetical (but potential real) situation: I am holding electromagnet that weights 1kg. This electromagnet is being used to hold up a 10kg weight. Would I feel like I am holding 11kg, or 1kg?

Lindsey Ibarra

Lindsey Ibarra

Answered question

2022-09-15

Hypothetical (but potential real) situation:
I am holding electromagnet that weights 1kg. This electromagnet is being used to hold up a 10kg weight.
Would I feel like I am holding 11kg, or 1kg?

Answer & Explanation

Lilliana Mason

Lilliana Mason

Beginner2022-09-16Added 11 answers

You are going to feel that force if you are holding up the electromagnet. This is because there is an equal and opposite force on the electromagnet you are holding. If you draw a free body diagram, you will see that the magnet you are holding has both the force of gravity acting on it and the magnetic force from the other magnet as well as the force of your hand holding it up. The force of your hand holding it up will have to balance both gravity and this magnetic force. The magnetic force will be equal to the force required to balance the other magnet against gravity. So in essence, you will feel the weight of both objects combined.

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