A magnetic suspension system for atoms and bar magnets

A three dimensional magnetic confinement system is presented which will trap both macroscopic and atomic magnetic dipoles. The dipole is confined by dc and oscillating magnetic fields, and its motion is described by the Mathieu equation. Most aspects of the dynamics of the trapped objects depend only on the ratio of the magnetic moment to the mass of the dipole. Similar motion was observed for masses varying over 21 orders of magnitude (from 1 atom to 0.2 g). The trap is constructed from inexpensive permanent magnets and small coils which are driven by 60 Hz line current. The design of the trap as well as the behavior of the trapped particle are discussed herein.