The Topographic Image of the Magnetic Field

Formally, this image is entirely similar to a topographic map. The similarity is not accidental. The contour lines on a topographic map change with elevation, corresponding to levels of potential energy. The image displayed on the television screen indicates the levels of magnetic field deflection, i.e., energy levels.

If we now consider the order of the three colors, this image composed of three colors can be represented in three dimensions, just like a known topographic map. It is known that on topographic maps, the higher areas with greater potential energy are usually colored dark brown. In such places, the potential energy is higher, and we utilize the energy of runoff water for work. It also happens that for energy storage purposes, water is pumped from lower areas to higher areas. In the first case, we harness gravitational (potential) energy, while in the other, we work against gravitational force. Geologists refer to the first case as an erosional process and to the opposite as mountain formation. Erosional processes erode elevated areas, creating plains. The opposite processes (volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, etc.) create level differences, forming mountains.

We can see completely analogous processes on the television screen. When the magnet performs work (e.g., it sticks to another magnet or a ferromagnetic material), the deflection contour lines become sparse (the topography erodes), the stored energy in the magnet decreases, and its attractive force diminishes. Conversely, if we work against the magnetic field (e.g., bringing two repelling magnetic poles together or forcibly separating a magnet stuck to a ferromagnetic material), the deflection contour lines become denser (increasing the topography).

As we can see, this way of visualization is entirely different from Faraday's representation using force lines. Additionally, just as various devices detecting electromagnetic waves help us understand the world (e.g., telescopes that show different images based on the wavelength of light they detect, or radio telescopes), we should utilize the possibilities offered by cathode-ray tube televisions as educational tools.

Briefly on the Advantages of Illustrating Magnetism with a Color Television

Some advantages, as already mentioned, stem from the use of color, which significantly enhances the beauty of visualization. Additionally, this color—serving as a new dimension—offers the possibility to represent phenomena similar to topographic images spatially (in 3D). From then on, the image created on the television can be interpreted energetically similarly to a topographic map showing a gravitational field, allowing us to analogously deduce the direction of energy processes (referring to the direction of processes associated with mountain formation and erosion). Another advantage is the negligible inertia of the electrons forming the image compared to the external magnetic field source and the fact that electrons do not stick together like ferromagnetic powders. This makes the device excellently suited to address the gap in visualizing changing magnetic fields, significantly increasing the range of demonstrable phenomena. Thus, with this method, we can open a new window to magnetic phenomena imperceptible to humans, enhancing the effectiveness of our education.

SCIENTIFIC EXHIBITION ON THE NET

I wanted to be the first in the country to establish a smaller, local facility in Hódmezővásárhely, similar to Vantaa's Heureka or Budapest's Palace of Wonders, called the Scientific Exhibition, where many natural science-related possibilities based on cheap and simple tools, not visible in other science centers, could be demonstrated with significantly less economic investment. I would have gladly left many other devices, including my device for the colorful illustration of magnetism, in such an institution. There was hope for this, and the municipality even prepared a plan, but all this dissolved when they decided to establish a Memorial Point in the selected building instead of the initial idea.

I am left with the possibilities offered by the net.

List of Images:

  1. Device for visualizing the magnetic field
  2. Deflection contour lines of a weak magnet
  3. Denser deflection contour lines of a strong magnet
  4. Contour lines of attracting magnets
  5. Three-dimensional representation of contour lines of attracting magnets
  6. The "Heureka" Scientific Center built in the suburbs of Helsinki