  We present a new model, and the validating experiments, that unveil the rich
physics behind the flight of a conductive ring in the Thomson experiment, a
physics veiled by the fast thrust that impels the ring. We uncover interesting
features of the electro-dynamics of the flying ring, e.g. the varying mutual
inductance between ring and the thrusting electromagnet, or how to measure the
ring proper magnetic field in the presence of the larger field of the
electromagnet. We succeed in separating the position and time dependences of
the ring variables as it travels upward in a diverging magnetic field,
obtaining a comprehensive view of the ring motion. We introduce a low-cost
jumping ring set-up that incorporates simple innovative devices, e.g. a couple
of pick-up coils connected in opposition that allows us to scrutinize the ring
electro-dynamics, and to confirm the predictions of our theoretical model with
good accuracy. This work is within the reach of senior students of science or
engineering, and it can be exploited either as a teaching laboratory experiment
or as an open-end project work.
