Observation of the Transverse Force on Moving Vortices in YBCO Films

Abstract
We have designed a mechanical experiment to measure the total transverse force on moving vortices in a type II superconductor. The vortices are driven into motion by the vibration of a magnet above a superconducting YBCO film. The transverse force is measured by monitoring the motion of the superconductor in response. The advantage of this direct force measurement is that it is free from complications due to the vortex interaction. Our results are consistent with the Ao-Thouless theory.