Exploring magnetic resonance with a compass

Abstract

Magnetic resonance plays an important role in today's science, engineering, and medical diagnostics. Learning and teaching magnetic resonance is challenging since it requires advanced knowledge of condensed matter physics and quantum mechanics. Driven by the need to popularize this technologically impactful phenomenon, we develop an inexpensive table-top demonstration experiment. It unveils the magnetic resonance of a hand-held compass in the magnetic fields of a permanent magnet. The setup provides an immediate visualization of the underlying physical concepts and allows for their translation to broad student audiences.