  Magnetic braking is a long-established application of Lenz's law. A rigorous
analysis of the laws governing this problem involves solving Maxwell's
equations in a time-dependent situation. Approximate models have been developed
to describe different experiences related to this phenomenon. In this paper we
present a new method for the analysis of the magnetic braking using a magnet
fixed to the glider of an air track. The forces acting on the glider, a result
of the eddy currents, can be easily observed and measured. As a consequence of
the air track inclination, the glider accelerates at the beginning, although it
asymptotically tends towards a uniform rectilinear movement characterized by a
terminal speed. This speed depends on the interaction between the magnetic
field and the conductivity properties of the air track. Compared with previous
related approaches, in our experimental setup the magnet fixed to the glider
produces a magnetic braking force which acts continuously, rather than over a
short period of time. The experimental results satisfactorily concur with the
theoretical models adapted to this configuration.
