My friend and I have put together an idea for a science fair experiment and i wanted some input. We have decided to build a large scale model of a solenoid, powered by multiple car batteries connected in circuit to form a very large magnet. With this large magnet we plan on making a platform over the south side of the rod and placing large objects above it to make them hover in the air. Of course we know that by repelling the objects the south sides would have to be facing each other in order to not attract and shoot whatever said object is down. We are also aware the magnets will flip in order to attract. What we want to do is place magnets on the bottom of someones shoes and so they can hover above the platform magnetized by the large solenoid in order to float above and in the air. What are some ways to find Iron and copper wire cheap enough to not make us go bankrupt, and how should we charge our solenoid? Should it be AC or DC and about how big do you think it would have to be? Would galvanized iron work at all or does it have to be pure, and does it have to be hollow or should it be a complete rod?
All answers and input are greatly appreciated.
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