Magnetic Needle on Stand physics Lab

Product Code : SCL-LAO-12064

The Magnetic Needle on Stand Physics Lab is a classic magnetic navigation and mapping instrument used for demonstrating magnetic field interactions and compass principles. Engineered for physics educators and secondary school science students, this tool provides a visual, hands-on method to study magnetic poles and lines of force.

Product Description

This apparatus features a highly sensitive carbon-steel pointer magnet resting on a low-friction brass pivot. The needle is painted with distinct north (red) and south (blue) indicators, allowing students to instantly recognize polarity changes during electromagnetism lab sessions. The heavy pillar base provides solid structural stability on standard laboratory benchtops.

As a fundamental piece of professional, it helps transform abstract magnetic forces into observable physical alignments. Adding this instrument to your laboratory setups ensures students can perform accurate magnetic mapping and successful replications of historical milestones like the Oersted experiment.

Key Features

• Low-Friction Brass Pivot: Features a machined conical brass bearing that allows the needle to rotate freely with high directional sensitivity.
• High-Magnetism Steel Needle: Constructed from hardened carbon steel that maintains strong magnetic retention over years of classroom use.
• Color-Coded Polarity: Designed with a high-contrast painted finish to clearly distinguish the north and south magnetic poles from a distance.
• Non-Magnetic Pillar Support: Features a non-magnetic pillar assembly to avoid causing any structural interference with the needle's alignment.
• Weighted Base Mount: Equipped with a solid circular base that prevents tipping during dynamic magnetic mapping experiments.

Technical Specifications

What's Included in the Kit

• 1 x Magnetized carbon-steel needle (100 mm length)
• 1 x Non-magnetic pillar support rod
• 1 x Weighted support base
• 1 x Protective storage case

Applications / Uses

• Mapping magnetic field lines around permanent bar magnets and horseshoe magnets.
• Demonstrating the deflection of a compass needle caused by an electric current in Oersted's experiment.
• Determining the local Earth magnetic meridian in introductory geography and physics modules.
• Calculating the mechanical torque acting on a magnetic dipole within a uniform magnetic field using the formula:

• Integrating into hands-on introductory physics science kits for multi-concept wave and field labs.

How to Use the Magnetic Needle on Stand Physics Lab

1. Place the apparatus base on a level, non-magnetic laboratory workspace well away from hidden structural iron beams.
2. Mount the non-magnetic pillar rod vertically into the center thread of the base.
3. Carefully place the carbon-steel needle assembly onto the sharp tip of the brass pivot.
4. Allow the needle to settle completely until it aligns perfectly with the Earth's geomagnetic field.
5. Bring external magnets or current-carrying wires near the apparatus to observe instantaneous angular deflection.

Handling Note: Avoid dropping or slamming the needle against heavy iron surfaces, as mechanical shocks can demagnetize the hardened carbon steel over time.

Care & Maintenance

• Storage: Keep the magnetic needle separated from powerful neodymium magnets to prevent accidental pole reversal or degradation.
• Cleaning: Dust the pivot area regularly with a dry nylon brush to prevent debris build-up from increasing rotational friction.
• Handling: Always lift the apparatus by the heavy base to prevent bending the fine pivot tip.

Why Choose Science Lab Supplies

Science Lab Supplies is a premier manufacturer and global exporter of high-grade laboratory instruments and science education gear. With decades of production experience, we construct durable apparatuses designed to meet strict international education standards. Our facilities apply rigorous testing frameworks to ensure reliable physical tracking across all our didactic models. We leverage advanced shipping networks to distribute orders safely and efficiently to academic institutions across the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you prevent the needle from losing its magnetism?

To maintain the needle's charge, always store it inside its protective case away from extreme heat, strong mechanical impacts, and powerful alternating current fields.

Can this needle be used to replicate the Oersted experiment?

Yes, by passing a current-carrying wire parallel directly above or below the needle, students can clearly observe magnetic deflection proportional to the current flow.

What material is the pivot tip made of?

The tip is crafted from hardened steel to minimize tip wear and maintain a sharp, low-friction contact area inside the brass bearing cup.

Does the support pillar interfere with the readings?

No, the support pillar is manufactured from non-magnetic brass alloys explicitly to prevent localized magnetic interference with the needle's alignment.

Does this kit come fully assembled?

It ships as a three-piece knock-down kit that screws together smoothly by hand in seconds without requiring any tools.

Check out our complete catalog of to find compatible instruments or add these units to your school's custom order today.