Magnetic Pendulum

DCS Code: 3A95.52 Last Updated: March 27, 2026
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Purpose

Demonstrates chaotic motion and sensitive dependence on initial conditions using a magnetic pendulum over configurable base magnets. Students observe how small changes in release position lead to capture by different attractors, illustrating fractal basin boundaries and deterministic chaos.

Wooden frame with a dowel rod suspended by a swivel chain from a horizontal crossbar. A ceramic ring magnet is attached to the bottom of the dowel. Below, a gray metal base plate holds three ring magnets arranged in a triangle pattern.
Figure 1: The magnetic pendulum: a dowel with a ring magnet swings over three base magnets on a metal plate. Rearrange or flip the base magnets to create different field patterns.