Demonstrating the Quantum Levitator | Kerry Briggs | TEDxLancaster

The Quantum Levitator uses neodymium rare-earth magnets, a superconductive metal disc and super-cold liquid nitrogen. The disc is not magnetic, but uses the magnetic field when cooled to -320 degrees F to lock into place and levitate (only while it’s cold). The disc is made of a superconductive metal with properties that are activated by the liquid nitrogen, thus creating superconductivity…temporarily.

Kerry Briggs of the North Museum of Nature & Science in Lancaster, PA taught middle school science for two decades and now gets to have fun engaging audiences in informal STEM education! Through the Museum, Kerry coordinates the regional science fair (the North Museum Science & Engineering Fair) involving over 1000 students who vie for 400 allotted places, competing county-wide for the top two places to go on and compete worldwide at Intel ISEF. Kerry earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Elementary Education from Millersville University and a Master’s Degree in Science Education from Lebanon Valley College.

[woopweep]

She’s great! I found myself cracking up at her humor! As an informal educator, myself, this was highly entertaining

[TheCalmnessinMindProcess]

Beautiful presentaion and I love your child like wonder, I wish my educators had had the same calm, funny, intriguing and inspiring delivery as you. Bravo.

[arlinegeorge]

Amazing demonstration. Thank you bless you. All your dreams come true.

[condyshares]

Wow, harsh audience! I thought this was truly fascinating, I can't believe she didn't get oo's and ah's from everyone.. You did a great job, Kerry!! Thank you! :)

[watsonwrote]

Wow that audience was not very responsive

[sandyakhadka]

Hey that’s my home room and science teacher😃

[pradnilkamble]

That was a brilliant and extremely fun talk ... no idea why others didn't like it.... Thank you !!

[WyattsSaab]

It’s reduced magnetic permeability due to extremely low temperature. NOT a superconductor

[Calupp]

Never new there was a tedx in my hometown.

this woman is hilarious.

[subhasisshit]

How superconducting material float below the magnet? What are the balancing forces there exist?

[daquion]

This is The Meissner effect (or Meissner–Ochsenfeld effect)

[manhdo]

-320 coldest thing on earth?, she is just creating more misconception

[richardedison]

If goats don't fly why do we drink cold water

[MudGod]

Her attempt at humor was kinda off putting, but still very cool subject.

[raz]

When you prove gravity doesn't exist ^^