Source of this article and featured image is Wired Science. Description and key fact are generated by Codevision AI system.
Metal detectors are useful tools for finding buried objects, from gold to lost rings. They operate based on the principles of electric and magnetic fields, which interact with metals in unique ways. This article explains how these devices work using simple physics concepts. The author, Rhett Allain, breaks down the science behind metal detectors in an engaging and easy-to-understand manner. Readers will gain a solid understanding of the underlying physics that makes metal detectors function, making this a valuable resource for anyone interested in the topic.
Key facts
- Metal detectors use the interaction between electric and magnetic fields to detect metal objects.
- Metals like copper and silver have different electrical resistances, which affects how they respond to magnetic fields.
- Eddy currents are created in metals when exposed to a changing magnetic field, which can generate a secondary magnetic field.
- Modern metal detectors use coils to create and detect magnetic fields, allowing them to locate objects underground.
- Resonance can also be used to detect metal by matching the frequency of an oscillating circuit to the natural frequency of the object.
